3 tips to connect to community
Oh the conversations I have been in this week!
Lisa who works at a university tells me that junior colleges are thriving and many other universities are struggling since they can’t house and feed and bring international students on campus.
A pastor tells his people to stay connected to their church as many are leaving their mega-church and going to smaller, rural churches where they can gather in-person.
Amanda got married in January and moved across the country for work. Churches aren’t meeting in her city. Hard to meet the neighbors with no connection. Can’t really enjoy the restaurants. She said she feels stuck at home, stuck at work, stuck in life.
These 3 tips I gave to Amanda last week over the phone. Maybe you can do something brave with them, too.
3 tips to connect to community:
Make a bucket list.
What did you originally love about where you’re living? This list can lead to adventure, hobbies, and creativity. I’d have to say: warm autumn days, escapes to wine country, trying all the local restaurants, hikes. Put that bucket list in a visible space and get after it!
Make care packages for several neighbors.
The more you make, the more return on your investment. It can be as simple as a note attached to a pack of popcorn, a note with some flowers from your garden, or a cafe/restaurant gift card. Make sure your contact info is included. See who responds. Then follow up according to your comfort level of engagement. Invite them over for drinks on the front porch. Meet up at an outdoor cafe or park.
Connect to a church that has small groups.
You might not even be the church-going type, but there’s something to be said about authentic community that is grounded in values and truth. The way you find a church these days is through Google. It’s how many find our church. Then from there, listen to the messages. Watch the live services. Explore the website. Email the staff. I promise you they’ll be glad you’re there and will want to connect. (If not, you’ve found the wrong church!)
This is the season for cultivating relationships with a few. You’re in the right place and with the right heart. There’s no FOMO because you’re new and everyone around you seems settled in. They need you. You will add so much to their neighborhood, town, and community group. As I say,
“Don’t wait for the welcome. Be the welcome!”
What’s a tip you can give to someone new to community?