Now that you’ve settled into your new house, it’s time to find a place to worship. That means visiting some of the churches in Clarksville and finding the one where you feel called to be a part of the faith community. As you visit each of those churches, keep these three points in mind. They will help you find the church that’s right for you.
One point is how people react when you walk through the doors. Are you greeted with smiles and made to feel welcome? Do people stop to talk with you after the service and introduce themselves? Are you made aware of the types of social gatherings that take place regularly, like a Wednesday evening supper? If so, that’s the type of setting where you’re likely to make friends and feel truly at home.
Another factor that matters to you is community outreach. What is the church doing for those who are outside the congregation? Find out what’s done in terms of pairing with others to support homeless shelters, offering counseling, housing recovery programs, and other forms of ministry. A congregation that cares for others as well as its own members is a good place to be.
Last, consider the opportunities present to participate in the ongoing ministries of the church, including the worship services. Are there opportunities to help with Scripture readings, offer testimonies, participate in the choir, and be active engaged in other ways? If so, that’s one of the churches in Clarksville that you want to investigate in more detail.
Remember that the goal is to find a church home where you can live out your stewardship and provide ministry even as you receive it. The right congregation will be a source of inspiration, support, and learning as the years pass.
