Attending church and Sunday worship services is a great way to get involved with a local community that shares your beliefs and values. However, being a newcomer can be nerve-wracking, even when entering a loving atmosphere among welcoming people. Below are some tips for making friends at church, whether you've been there for some time or you are making your first appearance.

3 Tips for Building Relationships at Church

1. Arrive Early and Stay Late

Attending Sunday worship services doesn't allow much time for talk while the service is in session. Aim to arrive 10-20 minutes before the service, and don't be afraid to hang out for a while afterward. Many churches serve coffee and breakfast food around these times, encouraging their members to socialize and enjoy each other's company. This can be a great time to introduce yourself to others and get to know them on a more personal level. 

2. Attend Events Outside of Sunday Worship

Sunday worship might be the most popular church event, but it's not the only way to get involved with your congregation. Many churches host Bible studies, potlucks, lectures, volunteer events, and other opportunities for you to practice your faith and socialize with other members. Many religious institutions post information about their current and upcoming events on public bulletin boards, on online pages, within Sunday worship pamphlets, or through weekly newsletters.

3. Fill a Specialized Role

Another way to get directly involved with other members of your church is to join one of the organizations that meet regularly. If you enjoy the volunteering and outreach events, ask how you can be a more active member in those communities by joining the board or planning committee. If you have musical talent, inquire about the choir or live band. Many churches are constantly looking for members to fill groundskeeping, teaching, and even marketing roles within their organization. All you need to do is ask your pastor or other members before and after services or over the phone.

The easiest way to make friends at a new church is to attend a place with a great sense of community. Mount Hebron Missionary Baptist Church in Dickinson, TX, is a Christian organization with worship services, Sunday school classes, and Wednesday night Bible studies. They are highly involved with the local community through outreach programs and events, and you can call (409) 218-9339 to speak with their staff. You can also visit their website to learn more about the church.