8 Miles and Why Church?

Okay, time for a real post! :)

So I walked 8 miles last night; I was not looking forward to it, and it was really hard--harder than I thought it would be.  Up until 5 miles, it wasn't too bad, but those last 3 miles were a struggle.  I don't know.  I'm just discouraged by the whole experience, even though I did the 8 miles, and I did it in a decent time.  Maybe I'm just afraid that if 8 miles was this much of a struggle how am I going to do over 13?  Did I bite off more than I can chew? :-\

Anyway,  in philosophical news, I've been wondering, "Why church?"  This is how I phrased my thoughts to my online friends:

What makes the church unique in a positive way in today's culture?

Historically, the church has been unique in the fact that it was a source for great art, architecture, and music. It also used to be about the only place you could turn to for charity. It used to be the main place for community, too. It was the birthplace of social reforms and civil rights. (Yes, I know there were negatives, too, but that's not really my point here.)

But, now, all of those things are readily found in the secular world. So what is our point? What would make people want to be a part of a church? If the answer is Jesus and faith, then how so exactly? 

I don't think I phrased it quite well, though, and I would add: "Why would a non-believer want to join a church?  He can find social outlets elsewhere; he can give to charity through a number of secular organizations.  He can enjoy great art and architecture anywhere, and he can participate in social reform groups outside of the church."

I realize this sounds slightly heretical.  (Sorry.  For those of you who don't know me well, that's not unusual.)  I realize it's rather negative, too.   But, well, yeah, unfortunately, that's been my mind lately.

I have gotten some incredibly wise and brilliant answers, by the way, but I'll leave you in suspense for now. ;)