Kait, thanks!

I've heard similar stories with the whole "asking permission" thing. I think people can take things a little too personally when it comes to church. Your parents weren't leaving because they wanted to "disobey" the leadership. They left because they felt it was no longer healthy or productive for them to be there. Church is a growing, moving, living tiny section of a great body at hand. And so, when someone gets upset that they're leaving... It's not a fancy club or student counsel. It's just one more local set of believers. Your parents should have received encouragement to find where they could feel safe and healthy, not had the pastor fathering them by telling them they didn't "ask his permission."

And no, not a good way to convince people.

Believe me, I share your hesitation. Right now we're going to a church mainly for our friends, and I have to calm my insides down that they aren't trying to trap us into membership or anything. They are nice people and all... But so were the people at the place I came from. Or so I thought. I feel kind of sad for myself when it comes down to that, but that's okay. It's where I am.

Maybe we'll both find that awesome place someday!

And thanks for your comments! They make ME feel not alone. :)