Maybe you've moved to a new area, or your family has grown, and you need a church that can better support you. Or, you're simply exploring your options and looking for a new place of worship. Whatever the reason, finding a new church can be overwhelming - but it doesn't have to be! Here are a few tips from a Catholic counselor on finding a church for you and your family.
Make Sure the Church Fits Your Needs
If you're looking for a new church to attend, it's important to find one that fits your unique needs. There are many great churches out there, but not every church is the right fit for everyone. Consider your circumstances and what you're looking for in a church before making a decision.
For example, in Brentwood, TN where my therapy practice is located, there are many churches to choose from. But If you're wanting a church that is close to your home, you probably don't want to join a church that is in the next town over. When looking for a new church home, consider practicality. There's no shame in choosing a church for practical reasons! If you have small children, you might not have time to drive 30 minutes to church every week. Or, if you like to stop at Just Love Coffee Cafe in Brentwood before church, you'll want to find a church that is close by.
Does the Church Have Programs For Everyone?
Another thing to look for in a new church is whether or not they offer programs that fit your needs. These programs help to instill a sense of community in the church and give you and your family the chance to grow in your faith. For example, if you have a teenager, you might want to find a church that has a teen group. Or, if you have small children, you might want to find a church with a children's Sunday school program and youth group.
These small groups are beneficial to help talk over what you have learned in the service and to dig deeper into your faith. They also give you an opportunity to meet other families with similar interests and needs. Churches can also have groups for parents who are caregivers or have neurodiverse children which can be extremely helpful.
Are There Other Families and People You Can Relate To?
If you're the only family with a baby who cries during the service, you might not feel as comfortable at that church. Consider finding a church where there are other families with young children so you can feel comfortable knowing your child will have peers to relate to but also so you're not surrounded by people who cannot relate to the season of life you're in.
It's also important to find a church with a wide range of ages. You might not be able to relate as well to people who are all retired or people who are just entering college at Tennessee State University if your children are in high school. Having a mix of ages in the church can give you different perspectives and help you feel more comfortable. Plus, having a range of ages allows you to learn from the elders and mentor the younger ones.
Can it Help You Through Every Season in Life?
Ultimately, another focus when choosing a church is thinking if the church has what you need to guide you through all the seasons of life - not just the easy ones. For example, a church that offers pre-marital counseling or has support groups for those who are grieving can be extremely beneficial. Or, if a church has a food pantry or is active in the community, it can show that they are there to help you through the tough times as well.
Attending a church that you know will support you no matter what befalls you can give you a sense of peace. Knowing that your church has your back can make all the difference when life gets tough. It can also help strengthen your faith and give you a strong sense of community.
So, if you are someone looking for a new church, keep these tips in mind! Finding the right church for you and your family can make all the difference. Not only for your faith but also for your overall wellbeing.
BEGIN CATHOLIC COUNSELING IN BRENTWOOD, TN
If you are seeking a new church home in Brentwood, TN, or Catholic counseling, I would love to help you on your journey. I am here to support you through every season of life. I offer Catholic counseling at my counseling office located in Brentwood, TN. I also offer online therapy to anyone living in the state of Tennessee.
If you’re ready to begin counseling, follow these steps:
Submit a contact form on my website or reach out by emailing stucook@vituscounseling.com or calling (615)-709-5779.
Learn more about me and my counseling services
Start living a life that fits you best!
OTHER COUNSELING SERVICES OFFERED AT VITUS COUNSELING
As a therapist, I know that struggling with your spirituality or finding a new church may not be the only thing on your mind. I also offer counseling for anxiety, depression, addiction, and more. I offer a range of counseling services at Vitus Counseling to help my clients through the various challenges they may be experiencing. I’m here to support you on your journey to healing and better mental health.
