Finding a Church

You may be looking for something familiar, where you instantly feel at home, or you may be searching for something new and different. But whatever your hopes and expectations at this point, it is important to find a place where you will flourish.

Here are some practical questions to help you discern your spiritual home for the next few years. They are provided in the hope that you will be alert to the guidance of the Holy Spirit and that wherever the Spirit may lead you, your time in Sheffield may be a time which is richly blessed as you grow in faith.

1. What church am I looking for?

In our consumer culture, it is tempting to imagine that this question is simply a matter of choice. Life is rarely that simple. For instance, often a denomination is something shared with family and friends from home. Much hurt and confusion can sometimes arise if you suddenly choose to belong to a different denomination. Your family may be able to offer you some helpful advice as you arrive in Sheffield.

2. What are my beliefs?

You may not be sure what you believe at this point. Many churches in Sheffield will have an `Enquirers´ Group´ or a course to enable you to explore what you believe. This experience can be invaluable in exploring Christian discipleship. Remember that a disciple is literally `one who learns.´ Discipleship is something which lasts a lifetime. You should not expect to have all the answers to life's questions after ten weeks of study!

3. What type of worship best suits me?

In responding to this question, it is important to recognize that worship is to please God rather than ourselves! Nevertheless, you will find in Sheffield a variety of different styles of worship, from traditional hymns with a professional choir to contemporary choruses with a full band. The important thing is to find an environment in which you can most freely express your capacity for worship. Don´t be put off by one service. You may need to visit a few times or try the church at other times to get a real sense of what the church has to offer.

4. What types of ministries are offered?

Every Christian community will have a particular gift and passion for a particular part of God´s mission to the world. Some churches will have a particular focus on evangelism, others on social action. Some will be particularly keen to work with students, others will be more focussed on the local community. If you decide that a church is not right for you, we hope that you will gain a sense of what God is doing in that place and give thanks for your fellowship in the gospel with people who participate in God´s mission in a variety of different ways.

Some churches have a particular interest in the ministry of deliverance (sometimes called `exorcism´). While the scriptures speak of the importance of this ministry, it is important that it is exercised only by an accredited minister with the full knowledge and prayerful support of the church leadership. Sometimes in the past, well meaning but misguided interventions have caused damage to the mental health and well-being of those involved (including times when other psychological or medical issues should have been addressed). If you have any concerns about the way in which this ministry is exercised, please talk it through with a chaplain.

5. Do I prefer a small or a large church?

In Sheffield, you will find small and large churches. A small church may offer a more intimate, close-knit community, while a large church will offer a greater variety of different ministries. You will also find cell churches (which offer an intimate sense of fellowship in the context of a larger church family). Some people value the anonymity afforded by a large church, particularly when searching for a place to worship. By contrast, others can feel overwhelmed by the experience and prefer the intimacy of a smaller group. Responding to these questions is often a matter of personality and character.

6. What should I wear?

Some international students (particularly from Eastern Orthodox churches) are occasionally surprised by the relaxed dress code which prevails in British churches. You should wear whatever you are comfortable wearing, but it is worth remembering two points: first, modesty is important and secondly, it can sometimes be very cold!

7. How does the church care for the vulnerable?

If you join a church, it is important to ensure that the church leadership has effective systems in place for child protection and the care of vulnerable adults. In mainstream denominations, it is good practice to have a named person responsible for child protection. The name and contact details should be clearly advertised.

8. How does the church handle issues of gender and sexuality?

The University of Sheffield has a clear policy on equal opportunities in line with UK legislation and good practice in higher education. Many churches will also seek to comply with existing legislation because the scriptures acknowledge the dignity and worth of every human being. For some students, the way these issues are handled can be very important. Whatever your views, it will be important for you to be at ease with the policy and practice of the church leadership.

9. What will the church expect me to contribute to its life and witness?

Whatever your commitment, it is important that you do not feel under pressure to participate further in church life than your free time allows. Your primary purpose in Sheffield is to study!