Front Porch Forum: "Is it okay to change churches after decades if I no longer feel truly welcome there?" (08/09/2025)

Sophia M. · Saturday at 7:00 AM

Front Porch Forum: "Is it okay to change churches after decades if I no longer feel truly welcome there?" (08/09/2025)

Still sitting in the same pew, but is my heart somewhere new? Image source: iStock

Pull up a seat, GrayViners! “Looking for Belonging Again” wonders if it’s time to seek a new spiritual home after decades in the same pew. Is it loyalty, faith, or something deeper that keeps us rooted? Read on and share your wisdom.

Hello TGV,

For nearly 30 years, I’ve attended the same church. I raised my children there, hosted potlucks, and led Sunday School. The pew where I sit still creaks the same way it did when my husband was alive. But lately, something’s changed. The energy, the people, even the messages—it all feels colder. Less welcoming. Like I’m simply occupying space, not part of something.

I’ve tried to stay. I’ve prayed for peace, for renewal, for a sign. But every Sunday, I leave feeling more disconnected than the last. A new church opened just a few blocks from my home. I visited once and was surprised by how warm it felt. But leaving my longtime church feels like betrayal. Like walking away from family, even if the family has forgotten how to see me.

Can a person of faith follow their spirit into new places? Or do we owe something to the places that shaped us, even if they no longer fit?

Searching for home again,
Looking for Belonging Again

Have you ever felt out of place in a place that once felt like home? How did you know it was time to move on—or stay? Share your stories and advice below. And if you’re searching for a new sense of belonging, start a conversation here.

NIBOR0 · Saturday at 2:33 PM

I almost feel like God put your concern out there for me to read today. Throughout the years I've belonged to many churches, been saved many times and finally gave up because I felt like people were horrible for 6 days a week and thought they could make up for it by going to church on Sunday. I also watched people making new business deals etc., everything un-church-like. I was baptized Catholic and recently thought about going to their church for some comfort. I even contacted them and have a meeting next week. I hope to find them welcoming and warm but if not, I just won't attend their services. If you enjoyed the new church that is closer to you and makes you feel warm and welcomed, I would definetly switch to that church. Church isn't just what you put into it but also what you get out of it.

Gayle B. · Saturday at 5:48 PM

I don’t have the same back story but I agree with NIBORO on going to the new church closer to you to find the peace and comfort you need in your life.

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Sophia M.

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