Introduction and Spinoff Question

[LaurenMomof2]

I'm Lauren! I've been around APA for a long time, but I've never really posted in this room. I'm a Christian.

During the past couple of years I have strayed away from the church and religion. I don't pray as often as I used to and I haven't been attending church or reading my Bible. I guess I've been trying to figure out life on my own even though I know I can't. I have felt the pull greater than ever the last few weeks. I know that I need to re-kindle my relationship with God.

The problem is, I NEED to find a church home. My husband works on the weekends though. I absolutely dread the thought of searching for a church home without him. I know I need to get back into church, but I just can't stand the thought of going to a strange church without him there.

If you ladies have any advice I would appreciate it. I read your threads all the time and I love the deep conversations you ladies are able to have about your relationships with Christ. It's personal for everyone and even though our beliefs may not be exact, the spiritual fellowship felt here is amazing.

Thanks for reading this! If any of you have any advice on where/how to start the search for a church home with just me and the kids I would appreciate it!

[Sakura]

Hi Lauren!

It would be very difficult for me to go to church without my dh, too. Maybe he could help you choose a church to try? That way he could be as involved in the process as he could be.

As for finding a church, google churches in your area. Peruse their websites. They usually have "about us" sections and "what to expect" sections, as well as pages on what they believe. And if they have a sermon archive, even better! You can listen to a few sermons to get a feel for the teaching/preaching before you make the big step to attendance.

[KC's wifey]

Hi Lauren! Its nice to see you post here.

My DH works weekends, too, so I go to church alone with my DD. It is hard sometimes. However my church has a great children's program. I have never had any hesitancy about putting her in their care. She loves it.

The other thing is it has become easier the longer I've been there because I have an amazing support system. If I'm running late, a friend will meet me outside and take my DD to childcare for me so I can get into the service (I interpret sign language in the front so I try not to be late.) Often a friend will pick her up and bring her to me so I don't have to rush out of service, I can stay and fellowship a bit with our Deaf members. The people around me know I come alone and they have really eased some of my burden. They are such a blessing to me. I feel that even though my DH can't be there, the Lord is taking care of me through them. I pray you will find a church home that will be the same for you.

Amanda had some great advice on how to start your search. Some things like music are just preferences, but other things like doctrine are deal breakers that are best known up front. I always look carefully through their belief statements.

Hope you find a wonderful place soon! It makes a huge difference! KUP!

[anonsouthernbell]

I think both ladies have some great advice for you. Do you have a friend or family member that might come w/you while you visit different churches so that you aren't alone?

[i.<3.cheesysmiles]

and welcome!

The ladies gave you some great advice. It must be very hard to find a new church w.o your DH. My DH often works Sundays, too, and honestly it is too hard sometimes to get to church with two LOs, especially when our service is right in the middle of DS2's nap.

I started looking for a church by going online and then emailing the pastor to ask about how their child care was set up. I got a good feel from a reply as to whether or not my family would be welcomed. I still remember what my pastor responded with - that they have a nursery, but he loves nothing more than to hear children during worship and he has no problem doing a sermon with the sound of children in the audience.

[Lindsay1]

What about visiting some friends' churches so that you don't have to go alone? Or visiting Sunday School/ Bible study classes, where you will have more interaction with members rather than sitting in the service alone. Would your DH be able to join you for Saturday/Sunday/ Wednesday evening services?