Connecting with Church

Church attendance has reportedly been on the decline for several decades; not just in the UK. Surveys and the media have indicated that more recently there has been a resurgence in interest in Christianity and the church, particularly among younger people. The Christian church is also growing very rapidly in other parts of the world. Looking at political, environmental and social instability, as well as possible personal upheaval, many are exploring the Christian faith. This book considers the reasons why some find it difficult to connect with church and Christianity and suggests ways in which this can become easier. There is advice for those who are new to church and the Christian faith and who rarely, if ever, attend. Online church attendance during Covid has become the norm for some Christians. What is preventing them from meeting with others in person? Is the introduction of AI, virtual and remote worship the way forward? Connecting with Church offers guidance on choosing a church, for example for students away from home for the first time or those starting out in a new area. Sometimes Christians can struggle to give a reasoned account of why meeting with Christians and being part of a church is important. Although the church can never be perfect, this book aims to clarify why church is relevant to all of us. It clarifies why we all need support and friendship from like-minded believers and how going it alone is not the way Jesus taught us to thrive in our faith.

Paul Warburton is now retired from a career in teaching. He has previously written both academic articles and two academic textbooks. Paul has been a Christian since his early teens and church has always been a major part of his life. He has had various roles in the Church including lay preaching, serving as a deacon and running Alpha Courses.