We've all been there – accidentally catching someone's eye during a time of deep contemplation, or falling over on your way to the front for communion. Simply raising your hands in worship without accidentally smacking the person next to you on the head is sometimes a big ask.
With that in mind, here are our top awkward moments in church, as experienced by the Christian Today team.
1. Accidentally drinking straight from the cup instead of dipping the bread during Communion. There are few things more horrifying than knocking back a huge mouthful, then getting back to your seat and watching those still at the front have a gentle dip, one by one.
2. Dropping the communion wine down yourself. Drenching yourself in the blood of Christ is wonderful in a metaphorical sense, less so in the physical.
3. Forgetting the pause in Matt Redman's '10,000 reasons'. Every. Single. Time.
4. Stomach rumbling while waiting on the Spirit. Why is it that just as the church falls silent, the stomach feels the need to announce its existence to the world? This is where snacks come in handy – don't be caught out.
5. Loudly opening said snacks. But for goodness' sake don't bring individually wrapped sweets – Werther's Originals we're looking at you. Church-friendly snacks include yoghurts (remember to bring a spoon) and everybody's favourite '90s classic mini-raisin pack.
6. Getting called up to do the kids song actions. All-age worship is excellent when done well, but leading a less-than-enthusiastic congregation in the fourth chorus of 'He's got the whole world in his hands' could justifiably be considered a low point.
7. Misreading signals during the meet and greet, and finding yourself snapped up in a side-hug. Or worse, the A-frame (shoulders touch, torso and legs remain as far away from the others' as possible). If you want to be safe, stick to a firm handshake.
8. Being the guy who brings his guitar to every church social. Campfire or no campfire, leave it at home, kids.
