One of the main things I wanted to do this summer was to find a church that was the right fit for me. Although I wish I would've started this sooner, I finally went and did it. Sometimes you need extra encouragement from your friends or family, though.
One day this summer, my sister came up to me and told me that she had a church we could go to. Although one of her friends suggested we visit one, I was still in awe that she even wanted to go. I had been putting it off for awhile because I didn't want to go alone. We ended up deciding to go to the church, and it was one of the most impactful experiences I have had in awhile.
I'm not going to talk down on the church that I previously went to because they are still doing the work of Jesus. However, I do want to express how much love and support I felt at the new church. Even the first time I went there, I was greeted by my sister's friend and her friends as well. They welcomed me with open arms and couldn't wait to worship with us.
The first service we decided to go to was about depression and anxiety. If you've read any of my articles before, you will know that I have and do struggle with both. The preacher talked about how we make these two topics so hard to talk about, but we should instead be showing others we are willing to be there for them.
I got goosebumps listening to a sermon that actually had meaning to my life. Although not every person struggles with those two things, I know that they are likely to know someone else who does. This conversation was something that never would have been talked about like this at my other church.
Another thing that I really appreciated at this church was how involved the community is. Right off the bat, they were thanking people around my age for stepping up this summer and taking on leadership roles. They were thanking people who volunteer to watch the children whenever they can. There was a sense of support from everyone in that room, and I instantly could feel that.
This church is what I have been looking for. It welcomes me for who I am and encourages me to learn from my mistakes. It reassures me that I am loved and was saved by Jesus. I'm so thankful for this experience and the ones to come. Even when I can't physically be there, they have a live streaming video. I highly recommend checking out Christ Church in Mason, OH if you can. It is now my go to church whenever I am wanting to go.
