Seven Keys to Church Shopping

Whether you've recently moved or are preparing to enter the church world for the first time, finding a church can be a daunting task. Here are seven easy keys to help you.

Key #1: Decide What You Want

Just like when you're buying a car, choosing a college, or making any other important decision, you need to begin this process by deciding what is important to you. Write it down and make your priorities clear. There are many factors to consider, but making these decisions will help narrow down your search. A few things you may want to consider are:

Distance - How far are you willing to drive for a church service? The church down the street may not be exactly what you want, but it is within walking distance. On the other hand, the congregation on the other side of town may be just what you're looking for.

Worship Style - What style of worship speaks to you? Are you more comfortable in an informal setting, or do you enjoy the high church liturgy?

Worship Times - Although Sunday morning is still often the standard, many churches are offering worship services at different times, from Saturday or Sunday evening, to various times throughout the week. If the idea of waking up with the sun on Sundays makes you groan, look into the alternative times in your area.

Programs - Many churches offer Sunday schools and Bible studies. Some offer extensive youth programs; others have an active senior citizen ministry. Decide what you want out of your church besides the standard worship service. If it doesn't exist, find a church that will create it for you.

Key #2: The Denomination Question

A denomination is a system of organization (and, yes, bureaucracy) that connects several local churches in an overarching structure. There are many denominations spread across the U.S. and even more non-denominational churches in nearly every city. The problem is that the denominations vary so much by region, that it's impossible to take what applies to a church in one part of the country and apply it to a church of the same denomination somewhere else. In some areas of the country, the Baptists are all hell-fire and brimstone. In other areas, that's the Methodists. My point is that when you look for a church to call home, don't give too much thought to the denomination, and its stereotypes, at first, unless you are seriously interested in becoming involved beyond the local church level.

Key #3: Pay Attention to First Impressions

Did someone greet you as you walked in the door? Did they show you to a seat? Did they introduce you to other people? These are things you have a right to expect when walking into a church for the first time. Notice how welcoming the congregation is. Make a point to talk to the pastor if he/she doesn't make a point to talk to you. Notice how "user friendly" the church is. For example, a greeter may offer to take your coat, or they may assume you know where to put it. After all, this congregation has been hanging their coats there for over 50 years. Doesn't everyone know where to put it? The coat example might be extreme, but do keep an eye out for what people assume is "obvious."

Key #4: Don't Pay Too Much Attention to First Impressions

I highly recommend not making any decisions about a church after the first time you visit. Go to this church a couple of times. Visit other churches, even if you're sure about the first one. If it's right, it will still be right when you go back. Even churches have good days and bad days.

Key#5: Trust Your Instincts

A church should become your spiritual home, where you go to be refreshed, rejuvenated, edified by the Word and Sacrament and the company of fellow believers. If you walk in the doors and something in your gut says, "This isn't right," trust that instinct. Your subconscious is capable of noticing and processing cues that your conscious mind doesn't see. While you're at your new church, take some quiet time. Take a deep breath, quiet your mind, and look around you. Does it feel right? Is there something gnawing at you that you can't put a finger on? Do you feel at ease? Notice these cues from your subconscious, from your spirit, and take them into account.

Key #6: Watch the People

Notice how people look as they come into the sanctuary. Watch their faces and body language. Are they happy to be here or do they walk in with a sense of grudging obligation? Watch them through the service, too. You should be able to tell if they are really into the worship, or if they are just going through the motions.

As you're talking with people, pay attention to their beliefs. Be very careful in a church where you find yourself agreeing with everyone. A good congregation should support your own faith, yet also challenge you to see things in new ways.

Key #7: Return Back to Key #1

Finding a new church can be very overwhelming, especially if you're in a metropolitan area with lots of options. If you feel overwhelmed, go back to your list from Key#1. Remember what you have decided is important, what is top priority for your spiritual life. A large, modern church may seem fun and exciting, but if it's not feeding your soul, it's not what you want. A small, intimate setting may seem like your childhood church, but if the congregation's not spiritually alive, it's best for you to move on.

Above all, don't become so discouraged that you give up. A good church fit can be one of the most rewarding experiences. If you find the right place for you, you will find more than a place to fulfill that Sunday morning obligation. You will find a community of supportive believers, a safe place to define or redefine your faith, and an opportunity to connect with God.