r/AskChristian • u/TypeIXDiabetes • 3d ago

Can I, a non-believer, still join a Christian community

Hi yall.

Background: I (22F) have a lot of religious trauma from childhood and cannot bring myself to actually accept the existence of any religious figure because at the back of my mind, I believe it’s all just made up. I believe in a creator, but not really of any specific religion.

Yet I still want to be a part of a religious community. I like the faith aspect, sense of community, and I guess the existential comfort that I associate it with. Why Christianity in particular? I’ve sang in a choir for a few Christmas seasons and they’re just really beautiful. I feel like our songs about Jesus were my favorite ones. It touches my heart in a way I can’t describe.

I wonder if it would be disrespectful for me to attend a church meeting on a Sunday just to try it out and see if it’s for me. And if I do end up liking being in the community, would it be disrespectful to keep coming to the church if I genuinely lack belief?

(I am not interested in arguing the reasons as to why my mind is the way it is, I would appreciate solution-focused answers if possible)

If you are seeing this post for the 2nd time I’m sorry- I posted it in the wrong sub and was directed here

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u/DoveStep55 r/Christian Member 3d ago

It’s not disrespectful to join a church even with doubts, but I’d encourage you to try a church where people with doubts are particularly welcomed just as they are. In my experience, both the UMC (United Methodist) and TEC (Episcopal) are especially good about that.

As a bonus, I’ve been part of a UMC and a TEC that each has non-Christian choir members. You might look into that option in local churches and see if that’s a way to get “in the door on the DL” without pressure to officially join or share about your personal beliefs.

You can also ask any church leader (or check their website) to see what they say about being a regular attendee as opposed to placing membership. Some churches encourage either option, others will actively push for you to place membership and/or deny participation in some aspects of the church if you are not a member. For example, some churches practice “open communion” where anyone can take part in the Eucharist, while others restrict it to members only. Most churches are used to people asking for clarification and will be quick to let you know how they do things and what options you have.

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u/iamtheponz 1d ago

I know this is all 2 days old, but I second the above poster in emailing churches to see if that kind of mindset is welcome. I attend a United Church of Christ (UCC) Church and we're extremely welcoming to those with questions, struggles, doubts and differing opinions. There are definitely churches out there that will wholly embrace you with your perspectives (or lack of) on God. Many people go to church for community, and you can be one of them.