How to Connect with Other Christians in Your Area

In 1 Corinthians, Paul warns the church that “bad company corrupts good character,” but sometimes it’s hard to find good friends. Even Christians who are part of a church congregation can struggle to meet like-minded individuals in their area. 

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to connect with other believers in your area. That way you can encourage one another in Christ and spread His love throughout the community. Here are just a few ideas to help you find and engage with fellow believers. 

1. Attend Local Happenings

Attending local happenings is one of the best ways to meet other people — Christian or otherwise. Whether you’re bored on the weekend or looking for a family-friendly weeknight gathering, there’s sure to be an event for you. Whether you attend a concert, farmers market or ice cream social, you’re bound to meet at least a few new people in the community. 

Use a site like Eventbrite or Songkick to find happenings in your area. Then, go where the people are and strike up conversations. Swap phone numbers or at least get their name and look them up on Facebook or Instagram after the event. That way you can pursue a deeper connection if they’re interested in meeting again afterward. 

2. Participate in Virtual Events

Perhaps your area has entered another lockdown or you’re uncomfortable attending in-person events right now. Luckily, there are still plenty of opportunities to connect virtually without ever leaving home. Plus, you can filter your search based on your location and interests to easily find and meet people with similar passions.  

Look for fun, faith-based events like trivia nights, Bible studies and worship nights that take place over Zoom or a similar web application. Resist the urge to slip into the background and put yourself on mute. Instead, engage with people in the comments and get to know everyone in your team or group. If they host regular competitions or gatherings, consider participating on a regular basis to form deeper relationships. 

3. Download an App

Sometimes, being part of a large group can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the area and don’t know anyone. If you attend virtual events, you’ll have to like, comment and post frequently to gain attention and win potential friends. Does that level of online interaction sound unappealing? Try downloading an app to connect with other Christians in a more intimate setting. 

Make a profile with Bumble BFF or Nextdoor or log into a Christian social media site like Shine or myPraize to find like-minded individuals in your area. Pay special attention to bios and look for any details that might indicate a person’s faith. Once you find someone who might share your beliefs, reach out with a friendly compliment or question. 

4. Visit Different Churches

Perhaps you’re attending a local church or participating in Sunday service online. Either way, it might be beneficial to visit a few other churches in the area and meet a few new people. This is an especially good idea for Christians who’re part of a larger congregation or one that’s home to a particularly young or old demographic. 

For instance, if you’re single, you might feel lonely in a church with lots of young families. Likewise, you may struggle to expand your social circle in a congregation with lots of older people. Why not break the mold and visit the church down the street? There’s nothing wrong with switching churches or even attending two or three at once, so go explore your options. 

5. Volunteer Locally

Most Christians know the second greatest command: “Love thy neighbor as thyself,” but when was the last time you actually put Matthew 12:31 into practice? Get outside your comfort zone — and the solitude of your own home — by volunteering in your local community. 

Maybe there’s an opportunity to serve as a tutor in your child’s classroom or foster puppies from the nearby animal shelter. Look for faith-based organizations that support local, national and global charitable activities. Perhaps you can even fill a role at your church. Be a front door greeter and say hello as people enter the sanctuary or offer to help out with children’s church. Wherever you serve, you’re sure to meet people who share similar values and interests. 

Friends for Cause

Who you surround yourself with will determine who you become, and that’s why it’s so important to choose Christian friends. As your social circle grows, remember to keep the focus on Christ and how you can further His kingdom in your community. If you work together, God will do amazing things and grow your faith in the process.