I’m looking for some advice on how to find a church to join locally (I’m in theUK). i only have online Christian friends abroad and would really like to be part of a local Christian community. How do I decide what denomination to go to? Will I ‘just know’ when I find the right place? Does anyone have any tips on what to look for?
4 Likes
Hi @theresa4!
Finding a solid church home can be one of the most difficult things in the Christian life. Unfortunately there is not a “formula” for the process, particularly since different places have different cultural and social considerations.
That said, here are some suggestions. Maybe think of them as a toolkit you can pull from rather than a checklist you must follow:
1. Consider your priorities
Of utmost importance is the basic question: is it a healthy church that faithfully teaches and exemplifies Christ?
Some secondary questions worth asking:
- Are there certain parts of church life that you desire more than others? (Small groups, prayer meetings, etc.)
- Is there a particular style of music that you are drawn to? (Liturgy/Contemporary/etc.)
- Is taking Communion weekly important to you?
- Are there theological dealbreakers? Different traditions believe and emphasize different things. Some beliefs should be non-negotiable (like affirmation of the ideas in the Nicene Creed) while others are open for interpretation (like predestination, free will, and the roles of women in the church).
All that said…many people choose their church because it felt like home, not because they researched every doctrine first.
2. It’s normal to visit several churches before deciding!
You’re not “cheating” on anyone by trying different places. Most pastors expect newcomers to shop around a bit.
When you do visit somewhere new, perhaps pay attention to things like:
- Is the teaching grounded in Scripture?
- Do people greet you naturally (not too intensely, but not too cold)?
- Does the atmosphere feel welcoming?
- Can you imagine yourself returning?
- How do the regular attendees interact with one another? Does it seem like a community you would grow in?
Try out multiple churches but remember that it’s usually clear within two or three visits whether you will feel at ease.
3. You might not know instantly
Some people have a eureka-type moment.
More often, though, it’s something closer to:
- “I feel at peace here.”
- “I look forward to going back.”
- “People are genuinely kind.”
- “I’m growing, even a little.”
4. Ask practical questions
As important as spiritual questions are, we still live in a world with practical concerns.
- Is it easy to get to consistently?
- Are the service times realistic for your life and work?
- Are there groups or demographics roughly aligned with where you are in life (students, families, singles, mixed)?
- Does it feel safe and healthy in its leadership and culture?
A good church should feel healthy, humble, and transparent.
5. Look for signs of a healthy community
Healthy churches tend to:
- Focus on Jesus rather than leaders or personalities.
- Teach responsibly from Scripture.
- Encourage questions, not shut them down.
- Show genuine care for each other.
- Avoid fear-based language, shame tactics, or pressure.
- Serve their wider community.
If something feels off, trust your instincts and the Holy Spirit who has given them to you.
6. It’s a cliche for a reason — pray about it
You don’t need to pray a complicated, grand prayer. God’s answer likely won’t come from a burning bush (though that would be cool!). I would suggest a simple prayer like:
>“God, please guide me to a community where I can grow, be supported by friends in my walk with Jesus, and can contribute to the body of Christ."
7. Don’t search forever
If you think a local church could be a good fit, try a small group, grabbing coffee with someone, or attending a midweek meeting. Getting involved will help you get a sense of the community faster than just attending Sunday services.
For you specifically, if you would like help finding some options to try out in your area, feel free to message me, and we can research together!
3 Likes
Michaela thank you so much for such a detailed and helpful reply. Soon after writing my post I was researching local options and found somewhere that really seemed to click with me. I appreciate your offer to help me research and will send you a direct message.
3 Likes