As you know, our mission at Ministry Forum is to remind ministry leaders that they are not alone as they answer the call to serve. We all need a community of support around us. At its best, that is what the Church can be for people. As ministry leaders, sometimes, sadly the Church is the last place that one might look for community.

So where is your community?

Who are your people? 

Inspired by these thoughts today, I’d invite you to consider this question of community to curb loneliness and isolation as a ministry leader and in the context of the Church by exploring these suggested resources.  

The Collapse and Revival of American Community

First, there’s the classic modern commentary on the loneliness epidemic, Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community by Robert D. Putnam. In it, Putnam explores the decline of social capital in America since the mid-20th century. Putnam argues that Americans are participating less in social organizations, such as bowling leagues, civic groups, and community activities, which has led to increasing social isolation and weakening of civic engagement. The book examines causes such as technological advances, suburbanization, and generational changes, and calls for a renewal of community connections to strengthen democracy and social well-being

The Science of Making and Keeping Friends

Second, late last year I read Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make - and Keep - Friends by Marisa G. Franco. As I grow older, I’ve noticed that I’m “not alone” when it comes to what feels like a lack of strong friendships. This book helped put some of those feelings in perspective. The book delves into the science behind friendship, drawing on psychological research to explain how attachment theory can help individuals form deeper, more meaningful connections. Franco offers practical advice for building and maintaining friendships, addressing common barriers like fear of rejection and societal stigmas around loneliness. The book ultimately emphasizes that nurturing friendships is vital to mental and emotional well-being.

It was through reading this book that I learned more about my own, perhaps stunted (to be vulnerable and transparent for a moment), journey with attachment theory. I found it a helpful insight to understand better what might be holding me back from nurturing those supportive platonic relationships that can really make a difference - especially for those who serve as ministry leaders. I’d love to hear your feedback on this one.

Collaborative Spiritual Growth

Finally, if you’d like to explore this from a Church lens, you might find this article from Duke Divinity’s Faith and Leadership interesting. The article uses a beach warning sign, "Do not swim alone," as a metaphor for the importance of community in the church. It argues that both society and religious institutions are fragile, with churches often offering a sense of belonging, but sometimes causing harm. It emphasizes the need for faith communities to adapt, embrace empathy, and reject isolation in order to foster healthier, more supportive environments.

Ultimately, it advocates for collaborative spiritual growth to counter modern societal loneliness and disconnection.

The Fresh Expressions USA podcast explored this issue in reaction to the dangers of loneliness, which U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy labeled an epidemic in 2023, comparing its harm to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It explores how churches could offer solutions to this societal issue. In this episode (which we’ve included as a YouTube video although you could hear the audio only where you find your podcasts), host Heather Jallad discusses the loneliness epidemic with Luke Edwards and Shannon Kiser, examining how Christian communities can foster connection. The Fresh Expressions movement seeks to empower churches to thrive by creating new spaces for people to connect with faith and each other.

Remember, you are not alone as you serve in ministry. We hope you find community here and in the other places you live and move and have your being.