Elephant Evangelism?

From Christian Research Network

In another example of how far men will go in their vain imaginations in the pursuit of church growth, we read in the Richmond Times Dispatch:

Church Event Has Carnival Flavor Two Methodist Clerics Ride In On An Elephant at a Henrico Service” By TAMMIE SMITH TIMES-DISPATCH STAFF WRITER

“With outdoor seating, colorful balloons, a menagerie of animals and the smell of food grilling, it was more like a carnival than a church service at Discovery United Methodist Church yesterday. And when the Rev. Jim Lavender and associate pastor Raymond Rowley, dressed in their clergy robes, rode in on an elephant to start the morning service, it seemed like a ringmaster was about to start the show.”

“Why an elephant?” said Lavender, who greeted the crowd with his arms spread wide as he sat atop the 7,000-pound pachyderm named Minnie who was led to the front by elephant handlers. Elephants are “the biggest thing God has made that walks on two feet . . . And God is bigger than that,” Lavender said.”

Potomac News.com reported “an elephant is sure to attract a crowd.”It’s literally traffic-stopping worship,” said the Rev. Jim Lavender, pastor of Discovery United Methodist Church.”

“Lavender, whose church frequently features animals in its programs, said bringing the elephant is another way to attract people who don’t normally attend church. The idea is that where children want to go, parents will follow.”

“The church is investing $20,000 in the service, which includes the cost of leasing the elephant, rentals, supplies and advertising, Lavender said.”

“We’re hopeful that this will be a big success,” Harris said. “If we get one family that wants to be part of our church, that’s a win for the Lord.”