I have always found the church to be a barrier between me and my relationship with God. Church is a institution of men (and women) and in my experience most of these institutions concern themselves too much with worldly things. I have never felt closer to God than when I am experiencing His creation - go to the mountains, the ocean, whatever you have nearby, and witness His glory in creation. Praise Him with the appreciation of the world created for us. Leave the gossip from Betty and Shirley to someone else, along with the collection plate. Give glory to what is truly important.