Changing churches is difficult, especially if you’re new to a town or suburb.
It can be hard to get to know people and become a part of the community.
But church is meant to be a place of unity and love.
So how can you get involved and start building relationships right away?
As you’re starting to get involved in your new church, it’s important to think about your gifts and interests. How can you contribute to your new community in special and God-honoring ways?
Maybe you’re especially gifted with relationships or good at extending hospitality. Maybe music is always close to your heart.
Whatever your gifts and talents are, here are a few ways to use them to start serving and get connected in your new church.
1. Children’s Ministry
Every church needs volunteers to take care of the congregation’s children!
No matter the church, it seems like there is always a shortage of children ministry workers.
If you love kids, it’s an easy step to get involved in teaching Sunday School classes, working in the church nursery, or even offering to babysit for church families. It’s often a huge ministry for parents of all ages to give them a brief break and invest in their children.
And if you have your own kids, it’s a natural place to get more involved.
As you’re settling into your new church, keep your eyes and ears open for children’s ministry needs. You can often start your involvement by bringing a simple donation of snacks or used toys to let people know you’re interested in helping out.
Be prepared for a background check or brief interview process if you’re brand new to the church. Everyone wants to make sure they know who’s working with their children!
2. Music Ministry
Serving on your church’s music team is always a great way to meet people and deepen relationships. It can be a big commitment, but it’s a rewarding investment.
If you’re a gifted musician or singer, take an opportunity to chat with a worship leader or member of the music team after service. Most music teams are eager to get more people involved and broaden the style of music available at their church.
Music ministry might require spending a weeknight and an early Sunday morning practicing, but it’s fulfilling and enjoyable for most musicians and singers.
3. Community Volunteering
How is your new church involved in the surrounding community?
Do members of the congregation volunteer at local ministries or nonprofits?
You might need to ask around a bit to find out, but many churches set out flyers and brochures advertising their work in their communities. The ministries supported by your new church might include homeless shelters, food banks, and prison outreaches.
Find a ministry that speaks to your heart, then reach out and let someone know you’d like to start helping out. Most flyers or brochures will list a name, phone number, or email to contact.
Volunteering with a group from your new church offers you the opportunity to get involved in your church and your community all at once!
You’ll get to know your new church family by serving others together.
4. Small Groups
Most churches offer Bible studies, home groups, or some other variation of small group community. Regardless of the name, it’s a great chance to invest in personal relationships with a smaller number of people.
If you’re more of an introvert, getting to know people in a church service might be daunting.
Small groups offer you an opportunity to sit down in a less stressful setting and build relationships by learning with others.
Ask a pastor to tell you about a few options for Bible studies or small groups. Once they know you’re looking, you might even get invited to their weekly group meeting!
5. Setup and Takedown
If you’re not sure at all where to start, look around at the beginning and end of a church service. Is someone setting out chairs or putting them away?
One of the fastest ways to meet new people and let them know you want to get involved is simply helping with setup and takedown. If your church meets in a rented location, this is an especially important part of each service!
Get busy helping and introductions will follow.
It can be hard to feel at home in a new church, but the family of God can also be incredibly welcoming to newcomers and visitors.
Pray about your involvement, and then take a step of faith!
God will bless your efforts to serve and connect with His people.
(h/t Christian Life Daily)