Hello, my darling, and welcome back to the blog! Life here in our London home has been nothing short of a three-ring circus lately. Between my toddler’s newfound love of hiding my keys and my husband’s eternal quest to finish a cup of tea while it’s still hot, we’ve been riding the rollercoaster of family life with a mix of laughter, tears, and the occasional bribe involving chocolate.

Take yesterday, for example. We’re knee-deep in potty training, a task that requires the patience of a saint and the agility of a ninja. After an intense five-minute negotiation, our little one finally sat on the potty. Moments later, she ran through the living room, stark naked, shouting, “I did it!” only for me to discover that “it” was on the floor. My husband, always the optimist, offered to clean up… as long as I made him another cup of tea. 

In the middle of all this chaos, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of finding a supportive community, especially when it comes to church. A good church isn’t just a place you go to on Sundays; it’s a haven where you can find encouragement, fellowship, and the kind of spiritual growth that helps you tackle even the wildest weeks with grace.

So, my love, grab your cup of tea (hopefully still warm!) and join me as we dive into 10 practical, heartfelt, and maybe even a little humorous tips for finding a church that feels like home. Because much like potty training, the right church is worth the effort and the occasional mess along the way!

 

1. Does the church teach what the Bible says?

This is the most important question to ask. A good church should base its teachings on the Bible, not on trends, personal opinions, or what’s popular. Ask yourself: Does the pastor use the Bible in their sermons? Do the teachings align with the truth of Scripture, or are they twisting verses to support their ideas?

2. Does the church help you grow in your faith?

Think of a good church as a gym, it should challenge and strengthen your faith, not leave you spiritually stagnant. Look for a place that offers “workout equipment” like small groups, Bible studies, or mentorship programs to help you grow closer to God. 

3. What does the church believe about key biblical teachings?

Before settling in, make sure the church stands firm on essential beliefs, like salvation through grace, the authority of Scripture, and the teachings of Jesus. A church should be a spiritual lighthouse, not a place where teachings drift with the tide of trends. If you hear something that makes your eyebrow twitch or your Bible go, “Hmm…,” it’s worth asking questions—or maybe running!

4. Are the church leaders approachable and honest?

No one wants to feel like they need an appointment three weeks out just to ask a simple question. Good church leaders should be approachable, humble, and ready to engage. If the pastor or leaders seem too distant or unrelatable, it’s worth reconsidering. After all, transparency is key.

5. Is the church a welcoming community?

A church should feel like coming home to a family meal, warm, inviting, and maybe a little loud (depending on who’s leading worship). Look for a place where people greet you with genuine smiles, not the awkward “I guess we have to” kind. Bonus points if someone remembers your name after just one visit. 

6. Does the church handle problems in a biblical way?

Every church has its fair share of sticky situations, it’s human nature. But how they deal with them matters. A good church doesn’t sweep issues under the rug but addresses them with love, grace, and biblical wisdom. Discipline should feel more like a caring nudge back onto the right path, not a public roast session.

7. What is the church’s mission and outreach focus?

A church that is passionate about reaching the lost and serving the community is one I want to be a part of. I look for a church that is actively involved in evangelism and outreach. The church should be making a tangible impact in the world, reflecting Christ’s love for others.

8. Is there a commitment to prayer and worship?

Prayer and worship are at the heart of any church. I want to be part of a church that prioritises these spiritual practices. The preaching and worship should help draw me closer to God, and the church should provide opportunities for me to pray and worship regularly.

9. How does the church handle finances?

A church should be good stewards of its resources. The church should use its financial resources wisely to support ministry, outreach, and the needs of the congregation.

10. What is the overall culture of the church?

Every church has its own culture, which influences how people interact with one another and how the ministry is carried out. I pay attention to the church’s overall atmosphere. Is it loving, welcoming, and focused on the Word of God? Does it prioritise spiritual growth over programs or entertainment? A church with a healthy, Christ-centered culture is key to my spiritual well-being.

Ultimately, choosing a church is about finding a place where I can grow in my relationship with Christ and be part of a community that helps me do that. Prayer and discernment are essential in this process, and I trust God to guide me to the church where He wants me to be.

It may take time and patience, but with these tips in mind, I believe I can find a church that aligns with my values, supports my faith, and allows me to serve God with other like-minded believers.

Whether you’re searching for a cathedral or a cosy little chapel, remember: the best church is the one where you can grow closer to God, and feel supported.

Speaking of support, things here at home are as lively as ever. Just last night, during our “family movie night,” our toddler decided that popcorn isn’t for eating it’s for throwing. Think about this my husband trying to shield himself with a cushion while yelling, “I’m under attack!” Meanwhile, I was trying to explain why the floor isn’t a giant plate. It’s moments like these that remind me why I pray for patience daily, and why having a good church family is so important.

So as you venture out to find your spiritual home, take your time, pray, and remember to enjoy the process. If this blog post gave you a smile or some practical tips, I’d love it if you shared it with a friend. And please, drop a comment below, whether it’s about your church search or the chaos in your own home. (Seriously, tell me I’m not the only one whose toddler thinks the remote belongs behind the sofa or in the toy box!)

Until next time, stay blessed.

Scherise. x