Should I attend services elsewhere while traveling?
Question:
I am a member of the Lord's church in one state and will be traveling to another. While away is it acceptable to attend worship service at another meeting house? And for my offering, should this be given to them or held until my return to our home congregation?
Answer:
The requirement to attend worship services does not become suspended simply because you are traveling. You will notice that throughout Paul's travels, he regularly attends services wherever he is. "And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple" (Acts 9:26). While hurriedly traveling to Jerusalem, Paul stopped at Troas for a week so that he could worship with the brethren there. "But we sailed away from Philippi after the Days of Unleavened Bread, and in five days joined them at Troas, where we stayed seven days. Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight" (Acts 20:6-7).
When I travel, where I will be attending services is the first item in my plans. I'll change travel days around just so that I have time to be with brethren wherever I am. My route is also dictated by what congregation is nearby. And that rule applies to midweek studies as well. I know that most congregations are thrilled when a brother or sister comes to visit. It's having family drop by, keeping you connected with your folks in other areas.
In regards to your contribution, that will be up to you. I typically work with small congregations who always have a tight budget, so my wife and I save our contributions when we are gone to be given when we return. I know other brethren who give to help the work wherever they are and others who split their contribution a bit while traveling.
