Modern society is facing a loneliness epidemic… ironic given that, on the one hand, we are more connected than ever before. Yet, it’s a connection that tends to be “a mile whide and an inch deep” so to speak. Connection rarely delves below the most superficial and humans just aren’t meant to live that way.
So how can a Christian today overcome loneliness and what is the church’s role in helping?
The Role of Christian Community
One of the most effective antidotes to loneliness is becoming part of a Christian community. Acts 2:42-47 provides a powerful model of early Christian fellowship, where believers “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” This passage illustrates how the early church was a source of mutual support, spiritual growth, and communal love.
Unfortunately, most churches for one reason or another kinda suck at this because church is a place you go and not a community you are a constant part of. If your church isn’t a thriving faith community you either need to…
- Turn it into a thriving faith community or…
- Get out and join a thriving faith community.
I wish there was more I could offer, but that’s pretty much the two options.
Practical Steps to Overcome Loneliness
Now, assuming you’ve gotten yourself into a church with a thriving faith community, here’s some steps to overcome loneliness:
- Engage in Church Activities: Most churches offer a variety of groups and activities designed to bring people together. Whether it’s a Bible study group, a service project, or a youth event, getting involved can help you meet others who share your values and beliefs.
At Christform, you should absolutely join us for dinner after service! You should also get into one of our small groups where we partner you with a group leader who is called to look after you. - Volunteer: So often you can find your ride or die bestie beause you share a similar ministry service calling. When you volunteer for greeting, AV, worship, etc. You tend to find yourself with people you just naturally click with.
- Seek Mentorship: Discipleship is a vital part of the Christian faith and it’s also where some of the deepest relationships occur. In the Bible, Paul would refer to his mentees as though they were his sons. It can be challenging to begin that type relationship, but it’s well worth it.
At Christform, we bake Discipleship relationships into our very DNA. Every leader has to be mentoring others. - Become a Member: Membership may seem antiquated on some levels, but it’s a commitment to your church and reciprocally, your church is supposed to then also be committed to you. All of these other steps are a lot more effective if you are a member of your church.
At Christform, our introduction to membership is our “Christforming 101” series. When you become a member at Christform, we do everything we can to make sure you are being supported holistically: pastoral care, mental health, physical health, relational health, etc. - Use Technology Wisely: So, while technology can suck at helping combat loneliness, don’t totally discount technology completely. Use it to build “phygital” (physical <—> digital) bridges for connection. For example, connect with other Christformers on our Discord, watch for upcoming activities on our Telegram or emails, book a meetup with one of our pastors, and then get out and touch grass in person.
Conclusion
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one… If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” In the fight against loneliness, the Christian community is a powerful ally, providing both support and strength. Make sure you get involved in Christian community, help others get into a Christian community, and together we can overcome the loneliness epidemic.