I'm thinking of going back to Church

[Anonymous]

But I don't know how...or where.

It's been years. YEARS! Since I've even been inside a church. My 3 year old has gone a few times with my in-laws and told me this week "mommy I have fun at church" which made me remember how much I missed going. My husband and I keep talking about it, but I know he's never going to go unless I start going.

I just don't know how to take that first step back. It seems like making up with a friend, or an ex.

I also don't know any churches around here, I feel...weird just walking in.

[Anonymous]

Where do you live? We love Luther place on 14th and m NW.

[Anonymous]

What religion are you and where do you live? We go to a great methodist church in nova, and it has great kids programs. Actually, it is a very active church for all age groups. Surprisingly, a lot of young people.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What religion are you and where do you live? We go to a great methodist church in nova, and it has great kids programs. Actually, it is a very active church for all age groups. Surprisingly, a lot of young people.

Why is this surprising to you?

OP, I suggest you audition a bunch of churches. Start with the denomination in which you grew up, then spend different Sundays at four or five other ones. You'll know when one feels right.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What religion are you and where do you live? We go to a great methodist church in nova, and it has great kids programs. Actually, it is a very active church for all age groups. Surprisingly, a lot of young people.

Why is this surprising to you?

OP, I suggest you audition a bunch of churches. Start with the denomination in which you grew up, then spend different Sundays at four or five other ones. You'll know when one feels right.

Because the average age of a Methodist is 60.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What religion are you and where do you live? We go to a great methodist church in nova, and it has great kids programs. Actually, it is a very active church for all age groups. Surprisingly, a lot of young people.

Why is this surprising to you?

OP, I suggest you audition a bunch of churches. Start with the denomination in which you grew up, then spend different Sundays at four or five other ones. You'll know when one feels right.

Because the average age of a Methodist is 60.

Fair enough. Still, there's been a resurgence of interest in church life in recent years. Especially in this area. Church is a fantastic outlet to meet other families who share similar values and beliefs and backgrounds, so it attracts families in growing numbers. How many posts do we see here that ask "how do I meet people?" Church is one great way to do just that. Plus, it gives children another entirely different circle of friends than school, which can be a lifesaver (literally) during the awkward teen years.

[Anonymous]

I got help with this question from the DCUM world a couple years back. Two years into the church folks recommended and I love it (though I'm pretty lax about attendance in the summer!)
Tell us your denomination and what you are looking for in a church- liberal, conservative, vibrant community, great kids programming, come and go unnoticed, etc.

[Anonymous]

When I moved to town I went to the closest church in my denomination. The pews had cards to fill out and place in plate when it was passes. Tried a few others, but kg coming back to the first one I tried. They had a new comers dinner, but don't think I ever attended until I was established there. Joined a book group held after church on Sunday (at time when kids are in Sunday school) and started meeting people in earnest through that.

[Anonymous]

don't feel weird just walking in. i know that feeling, but you'll be surprised at how friendly and welcoming everyone is. (and most people probably won't notice.) i'd start with the church/denomination you grew up in -- if you like it, great. if there are some churches you're curious about. check them out too. i've done a fair amount of church "shopping" (visiting). it's actually kind of fun, but i've settled on one now.

[Anonymous]

I'm in a similar place as you, wanting/thinking of going back to church. So I've made a list of churches that interest me and we've started to go. We go 2 times in a row to decide if we want to keep it on the list and then once we've gone through our list, we'll go back at least once to them and hopefully decide. We've taken the summer off but will start again in September.

If your little one has gone with the in laws, why not start at that church and go from there?

[Anonymous]

Remember that summers are very quiet in many churches, so that may or may not be what you want for early visits. (Come fall, kids' programs will be more active, regular ministers should be there rather than on vacation, etc.)

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What religion are you and where do you live? We go to a great methodist church in nova, and it has great kids programs. Actually, it is a very active church for all age groups. Surprisingly, a lot of young people.

I am in NOVA and would love hear about this! I grew up in a Methodist Church in the area, however, I am looking for a new one.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Where do you live? We love Luther place on 14th and m NW.

Not the OP, but was raised Lutheran and have been considering a visit to Luther Place. If you don't mind, could you share more? Is it friendly to families with small children? TIA!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:What religion are you and where do you live? We go to a great methodist church in nova, and it has great kids programs. Actually, it is a very active church for all age groups. Surprisingly, a lot of young people.

I am in NOVA and would love hear about this! I grew up in a Methodist Church in the area, however, I am looking for a new one.

Not the person you are quoting but mt. Olivet has a great kids program and a great preschool program. (you get bumped up the wait list if you are a member)

[Anonymous]

There is a Methodist church in Springfield that a lot of people I know go to and they always speak very highly of it. I think it is United Methodist just off the ffx county pkwy.