New to Church?

We know what it’s like to be the new person. So we try hard to make the Minster as welcoming as possible. Here’s JoJo’s story…

Hi my name is JoJo…

I got back from being overseas a couple of years ago and had been looking for a new place to be just me. To share my life, my passions, my fears and a place that helps me to celebrate and live out the other 6 days of the week. The other 6 days out of church are my church, they are the days I put into practise all the things that I learn on Sunday. They are the days that my energy is spent working with people from India to provide long-term sustainable employment. My heart is to change their lives and show them the tangible love of God, the love of a God that changes lives and one that cares about them as individuals.

So I decided to try out the Minster, it felt like trying on a new pair of shoes and waiting to see if they felt comfortable. At the time like anything when you’re new I started to think, should I go, should I not, should I call and speak to someone to find out more or should I just rock up and see what happens? Will I be welcomed, will anyone speak to me, and will I feel like I am weird or will I feel like I belong?

I decided that I would make a random phone call, to Tash on the welcome team that I found on the contact page. My hesitation on making the call was soon taken away, I was met by someone who actually asked questions about me. Then said they would wait for me on Sunday! I have to say I did think “Yeah right” they will never remember who I am by Sunday.

So Sunday came around and I walked in wondering what “The Minster” was all about, I was totally shocked! Tash greeted me, she was really excited to see me and I got a really good cup of coffee and chocolate brownie (on a table near the door)! I got introduced to others and got to enjoy the times of prayer, music, and teaching without feeling too self-conscious.

Later that week I got a call and was asked to go out with a group of people for dinner and that has been it. “The Minster” lives and breathes the reality of what it means to be part of a community, which really does think about and love one another. If you are looking for a place to hang out with other people, who will love you just the way you are and encourage you, let you ask the questions you are scared to ask and include you in the life of the community then “The Minster” maybe the place for you.

My thought to you would be “Just give it a go”, rock up and find out more, don’t be scared to come through the door and say hi to someone. See if it feels like a funky but comfy pair of shoes!