Finding a New Church Home Away From Home

I want to first start out by saying my first blog post was about me saying it's ok to leave your childhood church. Then I had another that was a thank you letter to my church. Most understood what the post meant. For others, they took it the wrong way. By them taking it the wrong way, it taught me just how nasty people can be - over the internet. Especially ones that have been in my life since I was in diapers. What will always be fascinating to me is that certain people wrote to me (never did they talk to me in person about the post), talking for other people. What is even more fascinating to me is that certain people that came at me with negative words, left my church YEARS prior. And what is even more fascinating than that... certain people went as far as making a fake email account and commenting annoymously. And what could have been a discussion, turned into a one-sided war. I was 23 years old, having people older than 50 years old aruging with me. Why I stayed at my childhood church is another story for another day...

Going back to those said other people. They never brought up the post to me and still treated me as they have before I published my post. As 4 years have passed by, I am often reminded of things that were said when I see them. I want to make one thing very clear - I loved my childhood church and I still very much love my childhood church and I stand by me saying, "Thank U, Next... because it's OK to leave your childhood church."

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Moving away from home is a significant life change that often entails seeking new connections, including finding a spiritual community. For many, the search for a church that resonates spiritually becomes a vital quest after relocation. It's about discovering a place where one's beliefs, values, and sense of belonging converge harmoniously. Finding such a sanctuary not only helps establish roots in a new community but also nurtures the soul in a profound way.

I moved from Pennsylvania to North Carolina 4 months ago and I have yet to find a church home here. But I will be honest... I am not actively looking right now. Don't call Paw Patrol on me now. I haven't even stepped foot in a church yet down here. And I'm honestly okay with that. I'm not in a rush to find a church home - I tune in online to my PA home church service from time to time. There are many reasons as to why I haven't fully embarked on my search yet, one being me just being lazy. Another is because I need to evaluate what I am looking for in a church home. Another reason is because I am still finding my footing in my new home.

For me, the process of searching for a new spiritual home feels daunting, but I know that it’s an opportunity to explore, grow, and expand my horizons. I am trying to embrace this change as a chance to deepen my understanding of my faith and connect with individuals who share similar convictions.

Like I said earlier, before I embark on my quest, I want to take time to reflect on what matters most to me in a church community. I need to consider my beliefs, the style of worship that uplifts my spirit, and the kind of community involvement I desire. I feel as though if I identify these core values, it will guide my search and align me with a congregation that resonates with my spiritual needs.

Finding a church that aligns with personal beliefs and values is a deeply personal journey. It involves exploring different denominations, attending services, and engaging in various community activities. This quest isn't merely about physical proximity; it's about finding a spiritual home where one's soul feels nourished and uplifted.

My childhood home church was a 45 minute commute every Sunday morning... on a good day. Factor in traffic, accidents, road construction, etc.. I was looking at an over a hour drive. It really hurt my spirit when I would get ridiculed for missing church service and my reason for missing was because I either didn't want to get stuck on the interstate for longer than I needed to be or becuase I simply didn't feel like driving for long. And honestly, growing up at my church... it was RARE for me to miss service. My dad was in charge of the Audio Ministry so we would always ride together - but sometimes, you just don't feel like sitting in traffic on a Sunday morning - when you could be at home in bed eating waffles.

Ideally, I would love to find a church within a 20 minute radius, but I understand that might not happen for me. One thing about living in the south, is there is a church at almost every corner. I just have to actively start my search.

Attending various churches can provide invaluable insights into their dynamics. You want to engage in worship services, join study groups, and participate in community activities to gauge the vibe and sense of community. You want to take note of how the congregation interacts, supports one another, and fosters a welcoming environment. A welcoming and inclusive community is often a fundamental aspect of a fulfilling church experience. The warmth of the congregation, the willingness to embrace newcomers, and a sense of genuine care can significantly impact one's spiritual journey.

Sometimes, a church might seem perfect on paper but may not feel like the right fit. Trust your instincts; your intuition often guides you toward the place where you feel most spiritually nourished. Pay attention to the atmosphere and the sermons—do they inspire and challenge you in meaningful ways?

I want to forge connections within the church community. I want to engage in conversations, express my thoughts, and be open to meeting new people. I know that building relationships with fellow congregants can enhance my sense of belonging and offer profound support during my spiritual journey.

Note to self: the process of finding a new church is a journey in itself. I need to allow myself the grace to adapt and grow within a new spiritual environment. Embrace the differences, celebrate the diversity, and cherish the unique perspectives that each community brings.

In today's diverse society, many seek communities that celebrate inclusivity and diversity. A church that embraces people from different backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life often provides a richer spiritual experience. Diversity fosters an environment of acceptance and understanding, creating a tapestry of experiences and perspectives. A church community plays a pivotal role in providing spiritual guidance, support, and opportunities for growth.

I say all this to say...

Finding a new church home after moving away from familiar surroundings can be an enriching experience. It’s a chance to broaden your spiritual horizons, connect with diverse individuals, and deepen your understanding of your faith. Keep an open heart, trust your instincts, and allow yourself the opportunity to flourish within a new community that feeds your soul in a positive and uplifting manner.

The search for a new church home after relocating isn't just about finding a building to attend on Sundays; it's about discovering a nurturing community that resonates with one's beliefs, values, and aspirations. It's a journey that involves exploration, open-mindedness, and a willingness to embrace change.

Finding a church that feeds you spiritually in a positive way after moving away from home is an incredibly rewarding endeavor. It's about discovering a place where your heart feels at home and your spirit finds solace—a haven where you can grow, connect, and contribute to something greater than yourself.

I'm going to take my time in finding a church home - there's no rush. Finding a church home is serious business... please give me grace in finding one.