 Questions of Life
Members of the Vine have been asking people from around the area what they enjoy here, what they feel is needed and what they believe. Can you identify with the answers? (click on an image to enlarge)
The surrounding countryside
 Asked about what people liked about the area, the overwhelming choice is Surrey Hills with 70% selecting this. After quite a gap, the next four choices are; people, schools, near to London and good transport links. The least selected choices are; leisure facilities, shops and lowest of all, housing.
What's missing?
The opinion on shops is confirmed on asking what are needs in the area that are not being addressed. 34% of answers identify that Dorking needs more variety of shops and cafes including a flagship store. 33% of responses say that more things are needed for young people. This perhaps reflects the low score on leisure facilities above. 10% of responses are about public transport – more reliable, more services after 5pm and on Sundays.
 Asked what needs a Church could provide, the top answers are; run teenage youth groups, visit the elderly, organise community events and help improve marriage/relationships.
What is evident is that people would like the Church to be an agent for social action, even an extension of social services. Serving the spiritual needs of the community e.g. prayer is not seen as a high priority even though Jesus’ commission to the Church is to take the gospel to all people. Wouldn’t people and communities be transformed if they turned to a supernatural God?
Churchgoing
19% of respondents said they went to Church most weeks/months, with another 20% going to Church several times a year. This is well above the national average of 20% connected with a Church with 10% going regularly.
Many pray
44% say that Christian values are very relevant to their lives and nearly 40% said that they had prayed either today or in the previous week. However 35% say they never pray.
When did you last read the Bible?
Bible reading is low – 22% saying they have read the Bible either in the last week or month. 66% read it last several years ago or can’t remember when they read it.
Who is Jesus?
 Only 48% believe Jesus is the Son of God, which is the biblical position. Others thought he was a good teacher or leader. It would be difficult to explain his miracles and resurrection if this was just the case.
What happens after death?
 What do people think happens when you die? There is a pretty even split between; it is the end, some go to heaven/some go to hell, all go to heaven and lastly, reincarnation. The biblical position is, of course, that we will all face judgement and those that believe in Jesus and have been born again will be with him in heaven.
What would you ask God?
There are many questions that people want to ask God. The main areas are about suffering and the bad things that go on in the world, the meaning of life and what happens when you die.
These and many other questions can be discussed on an Alpha Course – a chance to explore Christianity. This course is run by many churches in the area.
Look out for an opportunity near you or contact Phil Sutherland at the Vine on 01306 877214.
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