How to Choose a Church: The Basics Explained

By Mike Igi | February 2, 2022

Nearly 40 percent of Americans consider themselves “very religious.” Yet only less than 30% of Americans are going to church.

One reason for this discrepancy may be that many people don’t know how to choose a church. There are many types of churches, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.

Finding the right church is essential for your spiritual growth and happiness. But there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to finding good churches near you.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a church:

What Are Your Spiritual Needs?

Different churches meet different spiritual needs. Some churches focus on Bible study, while others emphasize social justice.

Think about what’s important to you spiritually and find a church that matches your interests.

Try a Catholic or Episcopal church if you’re looking for a traditional religious experience. If you want to explore spirituality beyond Christianity, try a Unitarian Universalist congregation.

If you’re not sure what your spiritual needs are, visit the Sound of Heaven church and see if it feels comfortable for you.

What’s the Size of the Church?

Church size can vary significantly, from tiny congregations of a few dozen people to megachurches with thousands of attendees. Some people prefer smaller churches where they can get to know everyone, while others prefer the anonymity of a large church.

Think about how meaningful personal relationships are to you and choose a church that is the right size.

What’s the Style of Worship?

Churches can have a variety of styles of worship, from traditional to contemporary. Some people prefer services with hymns and organs, while others prefer guitars and drums.

Think about the types of music you like and find a church with a worship style that matches your preferences.

You may also want to consider how important ritual is to you. Some churches have very formal services, while others are more relaxed.

What’s the Political Orientation?

Churches can have a wide range of political orientations, from conservative to liberal. Some people prefer churches that share their political views, while others avoid politics altogether in church.

You may also want to consider the social values of a church. Some churches are very socially conservative, while others are more progressive.

Does the Community Matter?

Church isn’t just about the services and worship. It’s also about the community that forms around the church. Many people find a sense of belonging and support in their church communities.

Think about how important it is for you to be part of a supportive community and choose a church where you feel comfortable socializing.

What’s Your Contribution?

Different churches expect different levels of participation. Some churches are very open, expecting little more than showing up on Sunday.

Other churches have very active roles for congregants, including leading services and organizing social activities. Don’t just go to a church to be spoon-fed. Think about how much you want to be involved in your church and choose one that fits your expectations.

Learn How To Choose a Church

Finding the right church can take some time, but it’s worth it for your spiritual growth. Take your time, visit different churches, and ask lots of questions until you find the one that’s perfect for you.

We hope you now know how to choose a church. Please check out our other articles for more tips about choosing a religion.