True Belonging
Last Sunday at the Emmanuel 101 forum, we started with a simple introduction: What brought you to Emmanuel? And, what brought you back? Going around the room, over 25 people shared their responses.
It was beautiful to hear what they said. From those who grew up in the church to those who had never been to an Episcopal church before, the answers shared a common theme: “I chose Emmanuel as my church because of the people.” Over and over, folks told stories of being cared for in need, sharing good times together and of feeling a sense of belonging.
Often, people who come to church are searching for more than a Sunday morning service. They are searching for community. They recognize the church is not the building but the people, and they long for the kind of belonging that only living out a life of faith in the body of Christ can provide.
Belonging is more than friendliness and welcome. Hospitality opens the door, but belonging is the experience of being known and valued. Belonging is hearing, through words and actions, You are wanted here. And this is what keeps people coming back.
The church is called together to continue the ministry of Jesus who drew people into relationship with him. We are called to be a place of belonging, where folks can bring their struggles and fears as well as their joys, where we do not have to pretend. In a church like that, God’s grace is powerful and evident.
So, thank you to those who greet others, who take time to listen, who invite others to sit at their table, who aren’t afraid to share the joys and pain of life. It has made a difference to Marion and me as we have settled into our lives here in Southern Pines and into Emmanuel as our church home. It makes a difference to those who are still searching.
To those around us who are longing for such a place, possibly with weary hearts hoping to be known and loved, I pray the Holy Spirit guides them to the body of Christ, and that the church continues to meet others not just with hospitality but with a sense of belonging.