Embracing Faith: Going to Church as an Adult
Facing Preconceptions and Accepting Quiet Growth
I had judgments—plenty of them—about going to church. I grew up as an athlete in a suburban, middle-class community, where Sundays were for morning practices, hanging out at the mall with friends, and catching up on homework. I didn’t know what church was about, who God truly was, or why people were so devoted to Him.
As a child and young adult, I never even considered spiritual reflection—I didn’t know what it was or why it mattered. Life felt too busy, too full of plans and distractions, to leave room for something deeper.
So when I first thought about going to church, it felt unfamiliar and uncomfortable. Stepping into an unknown environment stirred up questions—Will I belong here? What’s the point? What if I don’t believe the same things as everyone else? Will I feel judged or out of place?
Stepping Into the Unknown
I was 26 and had just moved to a new city across the country when I made the decision to go to church with the missionaires. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I had plenty of preconceived notions about religion, countless judgments, and voices in my head telling me what church should be. Yet despite all of that, I felt an undeniable pull to go—something I couldn’t fully understand but felt I needed to follow.
Walking into the chapel for the first time, I was surprised by the mix of emotions I felt. There was vulnerability in admitting I didn’t have all the answers, and curiosity in realizing that maybe I didn’t need them right away.
What stood out wasn’t the structure of the service or the words I didn’t fully understand—it was the stillness. A quiet invitation to step beyond my ego and open my heart. Which I'll admit, was terrifying at first.
Why Consider Going to Church?
Church isn’t about perfection, nor is it a place where everyone has life figured out. It’s a space for growth—a gathering of individuals seeking connection with God and each other. Here are a few reflections on what attending church might offer:
1. A Space to Seek and Reflect
In our busy lives, it’s rare to pause and reflect on what truly matters. Church offers a moment to step back, reconnect with your deeper self, and explore your beliefs. It’s a quiet space where you can listen for the stirrings of Divine Love, free from distractions. Here, you can reflect on your journey and allow your spirituality to unfold naturally, without pressure for immediate answers.
2. Growing in Faith
Faith isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about releasing the need to control every outcome. When we trust in something greater, we create space for peace and transformation to enter. Letting go of the need for certainty allows us to be open to the unknown, trusting that we are guided and supported in ways we may not yet understand.
.3. A Community of Support
Church is a place to connect with others who are also navigating life’s challenges and joys. It’s not about being the same—it’s about sharing a journey. The friendships and support you find can be an unexpected source of strength.
Embrace the Journey
Spiritual growth is not a loud or dramatic process; it unfolds quietly, often in ways we don’t notice until we look back. Whether you’re curious about church or hesitant to take that step, let yourself explore with an open heart. The path forward might not always be clear, but it’s worth walking.
Remember, growth happens in the small moments—one quiet step at a time.
With love,
