the informal church

last month there was a lively discussion over at byron's blog on liturgy.

at wild street @ 5ive we're three weeks into a series on Judges, called (apparently uninventively) Heroes. personally i find the informality helps me as a preacher - you aren't limited by time, convention, expectations. you can talk with people, not at them. you can give a talk that is appropriate to the passage and the preacher and the people, not compromising due to unnecessary formality.

this freedom is something people really appreciate, comments have been great, and the topic of Heroes has been a catalyst for the meeting (gathering) leader to be hip and happening.

so far we've had Apostrophe Man, Butt Man, and Life B(u)oy leading church.

though disturbing to see him in tights, this informality has definitely been helpful, making "church" much more accessible.

HOWEVER (of course there was going to be a however), my question is whether this is an appropriate starting point.
that is to say, for people who did not have bad experiences in really "churchy" churches, this super-relaxed attitude may give them no deep understanding of the sanctity of God, of what it means to meet together as God's people.

sure, the word of God will be preached in a positive atmosphere, relationships may be more genuine, but in that setting, how can you make sure people get that it's not just a party?

do we need to roster people on to go to the 8:30am traditional service? do we need to run a meeting from the prayer book every now and then?

or do we all get it already - i should loosen up and enjoy it, just like everyone else is?