To the Church, about Singlehood

By Khristi L. Adams:

Not all members of the body of Christ are called to marriage, but all are called to be part of the body of Christ. We are complete in him alone and we are all adopted into one family no matter our place in society or our relationship status. We have to create a culture that celebrates, embraces and encourages individuals whether married or not. Here are a few things we can do to start.

• Change our language, phrases, jokes, and assumptions about single people’s lives. Whatever that person chooses to pursue, whether that’s relationships or career or passions, it is their prerogative.
• Encourage everyone to pursue their gifts and calling—the things that bring them life—and not to be pressured or intimidated into pursuing marriage.
• Encourage and celebrate the individuality of people who are single. As they move toward becoming more whole, self-accepting, and self-loving, we should rejoice that we have another healthy person to contribute greatness to the world around us.
• Remind singles and anyone else that their value is not defined by or found within the traditional marriage structures. Their individuality is valuable to this world, whether single or married.
• Communicate that the Christian community is an all-encompassing Christian family that includes people of all backgrounds and relational realities. Instead of the sending the message, “If you’re single you’re important too!” we should be communicating “We are all one family.” The family of God is not exclusive or divisive.