Using pre-service time to prepare for worship
Paul rebuked the Corinthian congregation when its lax practices hindered a worshipful attitude. He instructed the members to eat and drink at home in order to quell the unruly nature of their gatherings. In these modern times, must we instead do our preparing for worship and/or the Lord’s Supper at home because the atmosphere in the sanctuary is full of robust conversations and laughter? The organist has prepared pre-service music complementing the readings and hymns, but if someone wishes to listen and pray and prepare, he is hindered by the non-worshipful atmosphere all around him. I understand that our congregations are a type of family reunion gathering. But isn’t there a proper place and time for the loud chatter outside the pre-service period?
You have proper concern for wanting an atmosphere before the worship service that is conducive for contemplation, meditation and preparation.
A common practice of churches is that hushed conversations among worshipers end with the beginning of pre-service music. I would encourage you to forward your concern to your pastor and the congregation’s board of elders.