Many churches feature many different types of congregation participation during the service. Sometimes this is non-verbal, as when everyone closes their eyes or gets on their knees. Other times, it's verbal, as in singing or recitation of scripture.

I grew up in a very small church, so I always had to participate. If I didn't talk, the absence of my voice was noticeable because we had so few people! But since attending some larger churches, I've realized that often, I'm the only one in my row speaking up. How about you? Do you "Turn to your neighbor and say 'Pastor's preaching tonight!'?" Or do you feel more comfortable worshiping in silence? And what are your reasons for your worship style?

I have recently moved to a new location and have been trying to find a new church to go to. In my previous moves, I had a very easy time of finding a church search. For example, I moved for a job, and one of the former pastors of my church back home had moved to a church in that area. Plus, I was told to check out a church that some other mutual acquaintances knew. Well, lo and behold, turned out the two churches were really the same church! I went there every week and made friends that invited me to their daughter's wedding 6 years later. God is good like that!

But for once, I am overwhelmed by the mediocrity of the churches I have been attending. All of them are decent, and have had good preaching and worship. But none of them really seems to be a good fit. How do you all overcome this issue of finding a church? I have some criteria in mind, but I think it's more of a heart issue for me. I may be too picky this time around, perhaps.