This is something we talked through on the podcast this week, and it’s such a helpful way to approach your first semester. Consider doing this with a friend or two!
Find A Church By Thanksgiving
Finding a new church at college is a critical step in the process of connecting to a new community. However, if you grew up in a family that attended church, you likely have never had to do this alone before. So, here is a trick that you can use to find a new church by Thanksgiving. Why Thanksgiving? Well, that way you can sit down for a big turkey dinner with your family and inform them, “I FOUND A CHURCH!!!”
First Week of College (or before): Find some friends who want to join in on the fun and find out which are the five best local churches in the area for you. You can ask older students, college ministry leaders, or your pastor/youth leader. You can also search online or drive around and check out a few.
The First Sunday in September: Go to the first church on your list of five. Attend a worship service, find out if they have any college ministries, and talk to others who are there.
The Next Four Sundays: Do the same thing to the other four churches on your list of five. The Second Sunday in October: Pick your top three churches and drop two from the list. Don’t feel bad; this is important. Now, go back to those top three options for the next three weeks.
The Last Sunday in October: Narrow your list to two churches. Visit one of them. Be sure to learn as much about this church as you can as it relates to your involvement.
The First Sunday in November: Go to the other church on your final list of two. After you do this, ask God where He might want you to go. Is there one where you appreciated the teaching more? Is there one that maybe you know a few people who also attend and would like to grow relationships with? Which had more opportunities for you to connect and serve in community?
The Second Sunday in November: You have now picked a church. Go there and join. Invest in the community, even if you only plan to be there for the semesters you attend college. The Lord will bless you and bless others through you by your getting involved in one local church during your time at school!
The Freshman 15 is available for purchase on Amazon. Click HERE to order!
