What Does Community Look Like in the Church Today?

One thing I vividly remember from my childhood was the church family we belonged to within our congregation. We had a circle of families that were friends and hung out often. We did life together. Each family had children around the same age, and we went camping and had regular dinners and get-togethers. We celebrated together and helped each other during hard times. It was truly our church “family”.

Our church was a small church, and fellowship happened primarily after church in the lobby or dining area for lunch. If you were a new visitor to our small flock, you were welcomed with open arms and people within the congregation made it their duty to welcome you and help you feel included.

The Rules of Communication Have Changed

Expectations were different at that time. There weren’t any classes offered on how to greet guests or how to retain visitors after their first visit. It was natural and easy, and much less effort was put into the practice during this time. We still spoke on landline phones; we didn’t have texting or social media. It was just plain old conversation, person to person, and looking each other in the eye or shaking someone’s hand.

Today people prefer mediated communication (e.g., texting, emailing, social media) over actual face-to-face interactions. This shift caters to convenience and efficiency but ignores the deeper emotional connections and non-verbal cues that were crucial in our traditional, old-fashioned interactions. These connections were the glue that bound us together. It allowed us to create a sense of community just by being in the room together. A bright smile and an open hand to shake were safe and welcoming. These actions were genuine, and they were felt at an emotional level, forming the core of our church family.

As church leaders, we are now faced with the challenge of navigating the shift in communication styles brought about by modern technology while integrating the deeper, more personal connections of the past. This challenge is amplified by the residual effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has further entrenched digital communication in our daily lives. However, by blending the strengths of both old and new communication methods, we can still create a thriving, connected church community.

Navigating Modern and Traditional Communication Styles

To begin with, it's essential to rebuild physical fellowship intentionally. Encouraging church members to participate in face-to-face activities is crucial. Organizing community events such as potlucks, game nights, and service projects provides opportunities for genuine conversations and helps rebuild the emotional connections that are often missing in digital interactions. Regular check-ins through personal visits, phone calls, and handwritten notes can make individuals feel valued and cared for, fostering a sense of belonging and a feeling of “family.” These personal interactions are crucial and can’t be emphasized enough. Many times, leaders and staff members can fall into the digital convenience trap. It’s easy to send the email or text but miss the interaction altogether.

Another critical aspect is leveraging technology wisely. While continuing to utilize technology for meetings and events, when necessary, we should prioritize in-person interactions whenever possible. Hybrid models can ensure inclusivity for those who cannot attend physically while still emphasizing the importance of face-to-face connections. Digital invitations and updates can be used to keep members informed about church activities, but these platforms should complement rather than replace personal interactions.

Creating Welcoming Church Environments

Creating welcoming environments within the church is also vital. Training a dedicated team to greet newcomers warmly, engage them in meaningful conversations, and follow up after their visit can make new members feel immediately included and appreciated. Having leadership also model and demonstrate the same communication practices with existing congregants will help build a sense of belonging and community.

Building Community Through Small Groups

Encouraging the formation of small groups that meet regularly can help build smaller, more intimate communities within the larger church. These groups provide a setting for members to share their lives, pray together, and support one another. Prioritizing regular in-person meetings helps to build deeper connections. Additionally, developing mentorship programs where experienced members guide and support newer or younger members can provide valuable personal connections and opportunities for spiritual growth.

Fostering a Culture of Care in Church Congregations

Fostering a culture of care is fundamental to maintaining strong, supportive relationships within the congregation. Emphasizing pastoral care through regular visits, prayer groups, and personal check-ins by church leaders can make a significant difference. Creating initiatives that encourage members to support each other in practical ways, such as meal trains for those in need, shared childcare, or assistance with household tasks, can further strengthen the sense of community and continue building the church “family”.

Conclusion: Blending Old and New Communication Methods

Re-establishing a sense of community within our church congregations requires a thoughtful balance between embracing modern technology and nurturing traditional face-to-face interactions. By intentionally creating opportunities for personal connection and leveraging the strengths of digital communication, we can foster a vibrant, supportive church family. Let’s strive to blend the best of both worlds, ensuring our congregations are places of genuine connection and belonging in this digital age. By focusing on these areas, we can navigate the challenges posed by modern communication trends and the aftermath of the pandemic, ultimately fostering a vibrant, connected church community once again.

Jason Silbernagel

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