6 Simple Things to Do When You Don’t Feel a “Part” of the Church
I love Central. If you have not figured that out from my posts here or on social media, you haven’t been paying attention. It really is a family, and it lifts my heart each time I am with any person or group from Central.
But, no matter where you are, you may not feel connected. Someone (or a few someones) nearly anywhere will struggle to feel a part of things. If that’s you, this article is for you.
Now, let me say from the outset: not everyone will feel as connected as everyone else all the time. Some of this is personality-driven. Some might have to do with where you are (maybe you’re 25, but are attending a congregation of almost all elderly Christians). Still, there should be a great deal of connection.
So, instead of waiting for people to include you, here are 6 simple things to try that might help you feel more connected right where you are.
Arrive Earlier/Stay Later. You don’t have to unlock and then lock up the building, but a lot of people who don’t feel connected are also habitually late and run out before the “n” is even put on the final “amen!” You might find it amazing how much closer you get to a few folks with just 5 or 10 extra minutes each week before and/or after services.
Invite Someone to Your Home. Too often, we want so much for others to do this for us that we don’t take the initiative. Even if you live in a small apartment, have a young couple or an older widow over for a meal. That one connection–because you invited them into your life–might change everything.
Evaluate Your Schedule. Maybe your kids don’t feel connected with the youth group and, if you look closely, it’s because they are doing so many school and extracurricular activities that there is no time to be with the youth group. Maybe something needs to go so that time with God’s people can have priority.
Volunteer for a Ministry. Often, if you will take part in a card writing team or co-teaching a class or being on the audio-visual team, you can make a connection with that smaller group of folks and that will help you expand from there.
Be Active in a Bible Class. It is amazing to me how often connections are made in Bible classes. These smaller settings are wonderful environments to share thoughts, prayer requests, and even some laughter.
Sit Somewhere Different. Okay, I know I’m stepping on sacred territory here, but sometimes just moving to a different part of the auditorium can be a huge deal. You might just find that someone “over there” is a little more chatty after services and…there you go!
Above anything else, don’t lose sight of the fact that this is about God primarily. While being part of things is so valuable, you can still honor and worship God even if you are struggling to connect with other people.
(And, if all else fails…move to Paducah and come to Central!)
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AUTHOR: Adam Faughn
