What is the "Right Way" to leave your church?

The "right way" is to leave with no animosity or evil speaking about current members and to have a legitimate reason for leaving like God is calling you to a different congregation.

It sounds like the pastor just doesn't like people leaving, which is understandable when you consider a pastor's salary is sort of based on how many people are there to tithe. Anyway, what he should be reminded of is the fact that the Church is not confined to one building with one pastor. The Church is the body of Christ and it extends throughout the nations. As long as you remain part of the Church, it really shouldn't even matter when, why, or how you left that particular building of worship. You will still be united with all of it's members as we are all a part of the Body of Christ. In other words, we are all already part of the same Church.

Heck, who knows? Maybe you are to ask the church hierarchy for permission to leave or ask the pastor? I think it is best to ask Him or a deacon or steward of the church about what the pastor says about people not leaving the right way and what it means and how does someone leave the right way. it will keep it from suspicion that you plan to leave.

Dearheart, the Love of God and the Freedoms we have as christians in Jesus Christ does not chain you to a church that is not helping you spiritually. Just leave if you are not happy there, it is ultimately between you and God.

Beloved bless you in the name of Jesus. There is a "correct way " to leave any congregation that you are a member of. Its called a letter of separation. I'm not sure what denomination that you belong to, but must churches request a letter. And with the Pastor of the church you are trying to leave seem like he doesnt of approve of people leaving due to the fact its making his flock smaller. But the congregation is only there for growth in your walk with the Lord and once you have grown, matured and have been called into the ministry we are mandated by Christ to go out and make disciples ourselves. I pray this help you in some kind of way.GOD bless !

There is no right way to leave a church. A Church is merely a building. It is a representation of a religion. GOD IS IN YOUR HEART. Your heart goes everywhere you go, so you are never leaving him.

Religions are a way to control other men. God is love. There is no correct religion.

Sounds like a pretty drama-based church. Don't let them drag you down. You can't control what other people think, but you can control what you think about yourself. Do what is best for the people you love, and you will know you have done it the right way. If other people want to judge you, that's their problem not yours.

Sit down with the pastor and explain what is on your heart. If he is humble and willing to listen to you, and you guys don't get personal with any complaints, then it should go well.

Why, not ask the Pastor himself or ask your husband who may even know what -- he means !!

I'm not sure. I just leave. =)