The need to belong drives us to seek out long-lasting and fulfilling relationships. God made us for community and belonging. In Genesis 2, he created a female partner for man because it was not good for man to be alone. Even within the Godhead, there is community as God is three persons in one.
Belonging undeniably plays a crucial role in our well-being and happiness. The sense of connection that comes from belonging can significantly impact our mental and emotional health.
The church has a unique role in encouraging this sense of belonging. Churches can help individuals find their place and purpose within that community by creating spaces where people feel welcomed, valued, and connected. The church is part of God’s creation to “set the lonely in families” (Ps. 68:6), providing us with a place to belong.
At College Park, we promote belonging by inviting people to not only join our church but to belong to a community. There is no such thing as a “lone-ranger Christian.”
Dan Dainsberg’s story is a beautiful example of finding community and connection through faith. Dan, a retired pastor, and his wife, Maryanne, moved to Indianapolis to be near their daughters, Sarah and Kim, members of College Park Church. Desiring connection and seeking opportunities to serve, Sarah introduced Dan to Pastor Mitch DePoy. Their lunch conversation led Dan not only to finding a church community, but to a new role at College Park—small group leader.
Pastor Mitch introduced Dan to an opportunity called Group Launch. This three-week event is for those hoping to plug into a long-term small group to foster spiritual growth and community. Participants are placed into temporary small groups based on where they live with the goal of giving people a taste of what is looks like to be part of a small group and with the hope that the group will stay together after the three weeks of Group Launch.
Dan agreed to be one of the group leaders at Group Launch. His group was a success with most of the original members still participating in the group now, long after their Group Launch ended. They continue to meet as a small group and “do life together” along with studying the Word using the small group discussion guides and relevant Psalms. In doing so, the group embodies the spirit of the early Christians in Acts 2:46-47, who gathered daily, shared meals, and praised God together, resulting in a growing community.
“And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2:46-47).
Don’t try to live as a “lone ranger” Christian. Use the opportunities around you to find the community that God intends for you to have.
Learn more about College Park Small Groups
