We also saw how many Christians have shared her pain and at times wondered whether it might be easier to leave rather than love the imperfect church. We went on to suggest a few things it would be useful for people like Sal to hear as they come to terms with life in the imperfect church. Among other things we saw that the local church is a work in progress — a gathering of redeemed sinners who are all at varying levels of maturity. Yet we also saw that despite all its imperfections the church is still central to God’s plans and purposes for our world. Most importantly we were reminded that God is often more patient with his people than we are! With these things in mind we now look at some practical steps we can take as we seek to love rather than leave the imperfect church.