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When asked why they belong to a particular church, many people surprisingly offer reasons other than spiritual ones. In fact, belonging to a community of like-minded people is often a most compelling reason to get involved. Within a given church, various groups organize activities ranging from spiritual to social. With a little effort, you can find your niche within the church, make new friends, and perhaps make a difference.
It’s easy to get some basic information. Call your church office during business hours, and tell them you’d like to know about the groups that meet regularly. You should be able to learn how to contact the individuals in charge of each group, too. If you would prefer, ask whether a church brochure is available; it will provide general information about the church’s groups. A copy of the most recent newsletter or the previous Sunday’s bulletin will offer specifics about meeting times for the week or month.
If you are interested in groups with a spiritual focus, consider a study group. Most churches offer regular Bible study, and some host discussion groups focusing on other material. Sit in on a session or two of the groups that sound interesting to determine whether the structure and focus are what you desire.
Some churches host women’s and men’s groups which combine devotions, outreach projects, and social activities. Members of these groups then have an opportunity to develop friendships within the group, as well as to become involved in projects outside the regular meetings. These groups usually include people of similar interests, ages, or circumstances.
Special interest groups sometimes are organized among church members, even though their focus is entirely secular. One Midwestern church, for instance, offers a quilters’ group, regular bicycle outings, and a gardening club. Again, follow the church newsletter for information about activities that are taking place.
If you are inclined to volunteer your time, consider the skills you have to offer. You might offer to teach Sunday school, work in the nursery, cook meals for shut-ins, or coordinate a clothing or food drive. Volunteers are always needed for projects such as these. You might also consider leading a new project if you have a passion for a particular cause. Outline your idea, determine what resources might be needed to get started, and then approach your pastor or the church council to see if the church is able to sponsor the project.
Music lovers will find a wealth of opportunities for involvement. If you sing, ask the music director about joining the choir. If no choir exists, perhaps you can recruit others from the congregation to form one. Some churches have opportunities for musicians to participate in worship services, and this would present another possibility for the musically trained congregant to become involved.
Other ways to be involved in worship might include serving as a lector, usher, liturgist, cantor or deacon. Some of these roles require you to meet specific qualifications and undergo training, while some are strictly volunteer positions. This varies from church to church and from one denomination to the next. Your pastor can provide more information.
If you consider yourself a leader, perhaps there is a place for you on your church council or board of directors. These are usually elected positions and require a substantial commitment. Talking to current board members is one way to obtain more information. Less demanding opportunities might include attending board meetings as an observer, or serving on a committee or task force to study a particular issue.
Finally, make a point of attending any fellowship events after services. These will give you a chance to get to meet other church members and find out in what ways they are getting involved in the life of the congregation. Your church can be much more than a place of worship. It can, in a small measure, become a way of life.
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