Connecting with people in a new church

[PirateWeasel]

DH and I have moved to a new area and I've been 'church hunting' (c of e) to find one that is a good fit for us. I've found one that has a lovely style of service and is not too far to get to, with services at good times for us. But nobody has really spoken to me or made me feel welcome. I've been a churchgoer long enough to know that's pretty common in c of e, and that it takes time to feel part of the church family. The problem is I can't get to church every week...maybe once every 3 or 4 weeks...so I wonder if they forget I've been before and assume I'm just passing through. Any thoughts on how I can connect with people? Its very hard to make the first move when the vicar is always busy chatting to other people, and you don't know who is who. I'm very pregnant right now which I would have thought would be a good excuse for someone from the children's ministry team to come and say hi at least, but nothing so far.

I would ask people what goes on during the week that you might be able to join / go to, as you've recently moved to the area and don't know anyone yet. Of course you might be limited if you are coming to the end of your pregnancy, but it is a conversation opener. Just ask whoever is on welcome or whoever serving the coffee or whatever - they will point you in the direction of the right person / people.

Hm. If it were me that would make me question whether it's the right place for me. But assuming you like it in other respects, I think there's nothing for it but to be brave, go to after church coffee and introduce yourself to anyone who looks vaguely friendly. Also check the website, or facebook page, and join the email list - it may be easier to start making connections if you can go along to something with fewer people.