Finding Friends and Community on Facebook
We’ve all been there—picking up our phones to “quickly check” Facebook, only to find ourselves 20 minutes later watching a video of a cat befriending a hedgehog or liking our high school classmate’s post about their new sourdough starter. And while Facebook can often be a black hole of endless scrolling, it can also be an amazing tool for building real connections—especially for those of us in ministry who may find ourselves needing a little extra community support.
Facebook Groups can offer more than just a distraction; they’re hubs where people from all over the world gather to share, support, and yes, befriend one another. Let’s look at how you can find (or create!) a group that will truly enrich your life and ministry—no sourdough starters required!
Why Facebook Groups Are For Ministry Leaders
It might sound counterintuitive—after all, isn’t community supposed to be in-person and face-to-face? Ideally, yes. But let’s face it: ministry can be isolating, especially if you’re in a rural area, serving in a small congregation, or finding yourself a bit burned out from the demands of leadership.
These are the places Facebook Groups can really make a a difference. They’re an online space where you can connect with people who get it—whether it’s other clergy, Christian educators, youth leaders, church administrators those passionate about tech or ecology. or even just meeting other clergy who love their dogs. Think of it as a church fellowship hall, but instead of coffee and squares, you’ve got instant access to encouragement, resources, and maybe a few ministry memes to make you laugh on a hard day.
Finding the Right Group
So, where do you begin? Here are a few steps to help you find groups that don’t just fill your feed but feed your soul:
Start with Your Passions - whatever aspect of ministry lights you up, there’s likely a group for it.
Search for groups that focus on the needs of ministry leaders. These groups are often filled with others who know the ups and downs of ministry life and offer a safe space for asking questions, sharing struggles, or just finding a listening ear.
Before diving in, take a quick peek at group rules and recent posts. You want a group that encourages positivity, helpful discussions, and active participation—no one wants to get stuck in a group that feels like a theological boxing match! This also means it may take a few weeks of join and (quietly) leaving groups until you find the right fit.
Becoming a Group Contributor
Joining a group is one thing; finding friends is another! If you want to move beyond lurking and make real connections, here are a few ways to get involved:
Introduce Yourself: Many groups have an introduction thread where you can say hi and share a bit about yourself. This might feel a bit like standing up and waving in a crowded room, but it’s worth it! You’ll likely find others with similar experiences or interests who are ready to connect.
Jump into Conversations: See someone asking for advice on sermon series ideas or looking for book recommendations? Don’t be shy—chime in! Offering your insight and encouragement is a great way to start conversations and build relationships.
Share Resources and Encouragement: If you find an article, a podcast, or even a funny ministry meme that has lifted your spirits, share it! Groups thrive on member contributions, and you never know who might need that word of encouragement or laugh that day.
Be authentic! The most meaningful connections come when we let our guard down and show up as our true selves—whether that’s sharing a personal struggle or a story about the time your mic went out during the Easter service (we’ve all been there, right?).
Creating Your Own Group
If you’ve scrolled through Facebook and just can’t seem to find that perfect group that matches your needs or passions, maybe it’s time to start your own! Hosting a group can be a rewarding way to build community, especially if you have a unique ministry focus or a niche interest. Here’s how to get started:
Define Your Group’s Purpose: Do you want to create a space for small church pastors in Canada to swap ideas and support one another? Or maybe you want to gather Christian leaders interested in intergenerational worship services. Clarity on your group’s purpose will help attract the right people.
Set the Tone: Decide early on what kind of environment you want to foster. A friendly, open, and encouraging atmosphere will make your group feel like a digital home where members feel safe and valued.
Get the Word Out: Invite friends, colleagues, and people in your networks who might benefit from the group. You can also share the link in other groups where relevant (but remember—no spam!).
Need a boost to get started?
Here are a few groups to check out:
Please note, we do not endorse any of the groups listed above, this list is simple meant to inspire you as you search for the group that’s the right fit for you!