The reason i dont' want to is because churches go against so many of my own spiritual beliefs. And I don't want all of my friends to be religious, because I feel I have to perform in front of religious people so they don't go home and pray that I will convert and change. I want people that accept me the way that I am without the need to change me or save me, when I am happy in my own beliefs and raising my kids with morals within my beliefs.
So SHOULD I join a church for the 'community' of it? Even though the very thougt just grates on me?
2007-03-10 14:50:49 · 18 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Parenting
I am not a member of a church for that reason. I would feel the need to "perform" too. I ended up finding a church group that meets every Wednesday to talk about God and our own beliefs. The group is great because we go to different houses every week and learn a lot more then just about God. It's a really great chance for community and spirit. We respect each other and not correct each other which is something I've come to realize a lot church goers do. The best way to find a group like this is just look around for it. Do you have a community center? They have groups for all different things there. I know what you mean. It's hard to find a good "clique" but the only way to find it is to search. Best of Luck!
2007-03-10 14:59:06 · answer #1 · answered by .vato. 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Have you considered one of the many non-denominational churches or ones that focus on spirituality? There are many fine churches out there that are more open minded than the major ones.
I am not religious myself but am spiritual. It would be impossible for me to join a church because of my beliefs. So I understand your feeling about it. Perhaps there is some other group you could join? There is a group called Parents Without Partners that you might consider joining. There are other groups as well, it depends on what is in your area. There are also places where you can volunteer time and meet people that way. Perhaps some type of community group or activity that is of interest to you? Volunteer to help at your child's school?
I applaud your concern about joining a church that you don't agree with. Your principles should stand you in good stead.
2007-03-10 15:05:04 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
No. If you don't believe in the church then you should find a different kind of group. Churches are great for support and friends but I know what you mean about having to perform. Not everyone is perfect and alot of times the people at the churches I have been to, the people have been very judgemental and I didn't like that. I myself, am not a super religious person and I don't like things being pushed on me. If you don't belive in what the church is about you probably shouldn't go just to make friends.
2007-03-10 15:00:01 · answer #3 · answered by MyOpinionMatters 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is so many other choices then Church. There are different parent groups that don't have anything to do with Church. Look for support from moms clubs friends co workers. Church's only try and control you and tell you how where and when you can do things take control without the church I am a single mother with three children I find my way with out church do gooders trying to control me. Man they have tried. I am a good mother with moral values but I am also a free thinker. I hope you find help with out the chruch. I wish you luck.
2007-03-10 15:13:47 · answer #4 · answered by Debra 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Church is a way to converse with fellow believers. Find a church that goes with your beliefs. What are your beliefs, maybe I can help find you one. I'm not quite sure what your 'people' want you to go to church for, just emotional support? You shouldn't go where you feel uncomfortable and church is not just a hangout. If it's not for you, don't go. If you are looking for spiritual help, I may also be able to help you. E-mail is open.
God is everywhere, not just in a church, sometimes it seems, not in some churches at all. I teach out of the Bible, not by man made beliefs and ideas.
2007-03-10 15:12:15 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I agree that you need a community, but you don't need to join a church to find it.
There are lots of parents' groups out there, if you're looking for support and a way to meet other families. There's always the PTA or other school-related activities. You could join the YMCA (with your kids). You and your kids could pick a local organization to volunteer for, together. Check the paper for community activities and start showing up at the (free) ones that look like they'd be fun for your family. Chances are you'll meet people who can tell you about other things you might be interested in -- and, eventually, you'll make yourself a little social network.
2007-03-10 16:21:42 · answer #6 · answered by ihatesunsets 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I think you should find a church that suits you. Not all churches go against your spiritual beliefs. Find a church that you a comfortable in. Everybody has different spiritual beliefs. Just be comfortable where you do end up and make sure you can trust the people that you hang around, make sure you can trust them with your child and yourself. If you can trust them, they will consider your beliefs and not bash you, Take a step and find a church.
2007-03-10 14:58:30 · answer #7 · answered by all4godsteam 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Wow it sounds like you are talking about joining a church because you are broke and want them to help you out. This is the WRONG reason to join a church. If you want to join to have friends then this is also the WRONG reason to join a church. I don't think that God will bless you much if you go into His House and detest everything that He stands for. Maybe you need a conversion. Have you ever thought that the way life is going is because you don't believe in God? If you are not for God then you are against Him, and that can only mean that the only person "on your side" is Satan. God cannot bless you unless you are trying to live for Him. Wow all this and I am not even very religious, but I do believe in God and know that in order for Him to bless you, you have to believe in Him and live for Him.
2007-03-11 06:24:52 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
Don't get involved with an organization or church that will make you uncomfortable, as that's an unwise trade. Seek out Social Services available from the city/state where you live. You won't have to prove religious righteous in order to get help.
2007-03-10 15:02:51 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Only if you find one you feel comfortable in. I am searching for my own too. My friend who is pregnant with complications found one, she is completely herself, comfortable and says the best part is feeling loved.
They are hard to find I think, but God is real and will help show you the way. Don't ever compromise your beliefs or yourself and your family for people or for show. You can find support in a good church, and my daughter beats me up for not taking her to a Sunday school type function. So I am searching with you.
God is love.
2007-03-10 15:00:43 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋