I'm no stranger to new places. I move ALL THE TIME! In and out of communities. And for the most part, I enjoy it. I like the change of scenery, experiencing new people and new ways of living. I like the opportunity of seeing the world from a new place, new perspective.
And yet inevitably it means creating new relationships. Or trying at least.
It's only been three months since I moved into town. And less than that that I've been in my new position at work. So, in some ways, I really just need to give myself a break. Relationships take time. But, I must say that I thought it would be easier to get to know people at Trinity because there are so many people to know!
Trinity has about 4000 members! I know, right... tons of people to get to know! Folks at Trinity come in all shapes and sizes, ages and interests. Which is neat. Except that I feel like there is some unseen barrier between me and everyone in getting to know them.
It's true that I see about 500 people on any given Sunday, so you think it'd be easy to engage with folks... but the truth is that there's almost TOO MANY people to actually talk to anyone. And so I am pastor. Who leads worship. And who teaches classes. And who sends emails and hosts meetings. But I am yet to be the pastor who is involved in peoples' lives. Nor do I feel like many are involved in my life.
I am not looking for the church to provide me with all of my socialization needs. But, I was hoping it would be an environment where I could truly create meaningful relationships with folks. And that has happened with only a few so far.
And that's not the whole of it. Then there's my whole "private" life to contend with... trying to meet people in town. In the midst of work and busyness, etc. And trying to not have to compete with my life at church. [sigh] It gets lonely not having a strong core group of people here who I feel like I can always be myself around. Who share similar interests and activities.
I pray for the perseverance to keep extending opportunities to build relationships, both at work and in my home life. And I hope for a community I can truly call home.
