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[quote=Anonymous]Used to be Episcopalian, was married in the Episcopal Church, now attend a Methodist Church (initially because of proximity, now out of preference).  The liturgy is very, very similar -- the Methodist traditional service (which is the main service at our church) is like a low church Episcopal service.  The Methodist Church originated as a movement within the Anglican Church focusing on service to the poor (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methodism).  No "smells and bells," but we say the Nicene or Apostles creed in every service and have Communion once a month.  I am not sure exactly what the theological distinctions are, but the Methodist Church where we belong seems to have a greater focus on God's love and emphasizes service to the "least, the lost, and the lonely" as a manifestation of God's grace on Earth.  At least in my experience, the preaching has been very thoughtful and has deepened my faith.

The treatment of LGBTs is a concern:  I am not thrilled that the Methodist Church opposes the ordination of gays and lesbians and gay marriage, but I do believe this will change.  I have heard that the solution will be for congregations to decide for themselves rather than implement a one-size-fits-all solution.  They are mindful of avoiding a schism like the Episcopal/Anglican one.  There seems to be a diversity of liberal and conservative views in our congregation, but people are very respectful of others' views.

As for the Presbyterian Church, we tried attending when we moved to our current location, but it wasn't for us.  The people were wonderful and lovely, but I just can't say "debts" in the Lord's Prayer, and I have issues with the Calvinist origin of the faith (my family has a strong thread of Calvinism running through it).  In practice, though, they have moved away from Calvinism, and I doubt it makes much of a difference.  Go where you like it and feel comfortable and are likely to go back.[/quote]

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