Church (Charlotte, Concord, Hickory: fit in, live, stats)

[kc2sweet4ne1]

I know this can be a rough subject around here (Washington), but what about there? Does everyone go to church?

I am not at all opposed to church, however, I was not raised in a church. It was always an option and it was never pushed or was it ever a big deal for us growing up. Due to that, I've never really got into or understood much about the bible. As an adult, I tried going to a couple churches here, but never really fit in. A lot of people felt as if they were better than me or they went out on a mission to save me. I AM interested in church, I have a lot of questions, I do want to learn, and I do live my life in a Christian way- no lying, cheating, stealing and I deeply care about others.

We are planning a move over there and we are going to attempt to find a church for the entire family, but I am very scared to admit that it will be a new adventure for us.

Any thoughts?

[flipster]

Where in NC?

I'm a native, and if you ask me, not everyone goes to church, but when others move into the state, they think 'everyone' goes. A matter of perspective, but NC is in the bible belt.

My thoughts are this:
if you are not used to going to a church, it may scare the heebie jeebies out of you, but try going to a larger, active church. There will be more activities for all ages and so-called 'contemporary' services. These type churches are more geared for visitors and all you need to do is find a 'help desk' to get information if you don't know any members that can help you. Once you are used to attending and start learning, you may find that you want to attend a smaller church.

Not all churches teach the same things. I am not speaking of denominational differences either.

If one church isn't what you like, try another.

Ask neighbors or parents of your children's friends where they go.

I admire you for wanting to find a church for your family. It might be intimidating but hang in there until you find a good fit for your family.

HTH.

[kc2sweet4ne1]

Beautifully put. Thank you very much for your encouragement!

[friendnc]

Originally Posted by flipster

Where in NC?

I'm a native, and if you ask me, not everyone goes to church, but when others move into the state, they think 'everyone' goes. A matter of perspective, but NC is in the bible belt.

My thoughts are this:
if you are not used to going to a church, it may scare the heebie jeebies out of you, but try going to a larger, active church. There will be more activities for all ages and so-called 'contemporary' services. These type churches are more geared for visitors and all you need to do is find a 'help desk' to get information if you don't know any members that can help you. Once you are used to attending and start learning, you may find that you want to attend a smaller church.

Not all churches teach the same things. I am not speaking of denominational differences either.

If one church isn't what you like, try another.

Ask neighbors or parents of your children's friends where they go.

I admire you for wanting to find a church for your family. It might be intimidating but hang in there until you find a good fit for your family.

HTH.

Great advice! I'm a native as well and, no, not everyone goes to church. But a lot do (myself included). I go to a large church near Charlotte (First Assembly/Concord - concordfa.com) and there is a lot to offer. When we first started attending, with it being so large, we didn't feel we were under a microscope, yet everyone was so genuinely nice and friendly. We quickly made friends and our sons (14/12) love going. The church works really hard to make it as welcoming as possible, the churched and unchurched. What area are you planning on moving to? Maybe some from that area can point you in the right direction. Good luck!

[mm34b]

The last stats I saw indicate attendance is less than half the population on a statewide basis.

[Carolina_native]

Originally Posted by mm34b

The last stats I saw indicate attendance is less than half the population on a statewide basis.

Where did you get that information?

Church parking lots here where I live (Denver) are usually packed full and you cant get a space.

[mm34b]

Originally Posted by Carolina_native

Where did you get that information?

Church parking lots here where I live (Denver) are usually packed full and you cant get a space.

I can't remember. It was one of those times when I was looking for something else and just stumbled on the information.

This is pretty good write-up for a basic overview on religion in NC though.

Religion in North Carolina

[kc2sweet4ne1]

Thank you everyone! We are looking in the Charlotte area. We haven't exactly pin pointed an exact spot yet. The final decision will depend on where we can locate a job!

I love the idea of trying a large church first.... Thanks again!

[flipster]

Then I would suggest Hickory Grove Baptist. It's in the NE area. That's the only church there I am familiar with and I know there are families that drive a good distance to go there. There is a 'north campus' also. Here is a link: HGBC Gateway :: Gateway :: Hickory Grove Baptist Church

[njprintman]

KC
I have always found it somewhat offensive that the South is called the Bible Belt.
It almost suggests that the people do nothing but go to Church and force their ideals on everyone else.
I have Southern folks to be religious but not overbearing. They practice their faith and beliefs. It just so happens that Southern folks, unlike a lot of sections of this country, love their faith, their family and their country. Not to bad eh?
I am born and raised and a practicing Roman Catholic. (no wise cracks).
Do people who are Protestants force their faith upon others? Absolutely.
Are their Catholics who do the same? Absolutely.
At one point I used to go to our Church for daily Mass. Just wanted to go to Mass.
Sat in the back of the Church and just minded my own business.
After about three months it started.
"Don't you want to join us in ............"?
"Don't you want to do......................"?
Etc Etc Etc
I soon dropped the daily Mass and just continued practicing in other ways.
I know I sound a little snobby but I'm not. I just want to be left alone.
It doesn't make those people bad or ignorant. They are just being nice.
Guess I'm just an old far.
Anyway, I think religion and belief are so very important in daily life. If you believe in God and Our Lord Jesus Christ.............no matter how.............you can't go wrong.
My wife Judy is a devout Catholic but travels with her friends to other religious ceremonies and enjoys the ..... out of it.
I tell her to keep doing it.
See, Judy is the one who is gonna get me past St Peter.
Dennis