I met up with two folks this morning for coffee and a discussion. This is a larger Starbucks and sits across the street from a mall. The staff were, as with most Starbucks, friendly and helpful. Then I noticed that they had this at the station near the counter. The message? Sit and relax.

Interesting eh? Many restaurants are trying to move you along. Tim Hortons, McDonalds and others have seats designed to make you uncomfortable after a set time – the 15-minute or 30-minute seat.

Reminds me of the messy church model of congregational programming. The large row-by-row just “observe” the platform model of church programming is losing its attraction. And it’s the opposite of the synagogue model that was in place in the days of Jesus. That’s why he was able to take the scroll and read it for all to hear. This might be how the church will survive. Be welcoming in small ways.