Events

Every year many of us pick up a tent, pack a backpack, and head out into the great outdoors for a weekend of music, mildly questionable food choices and (sometimes) mud at our favourite festivals. But whether you’re a regular attendee or a nervous newcomer, heading to a Christian festival can be a wonderful, welcoming place to meet like-minded people. It could even be the perfect spot for a first date! With so much to do at a festival, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. But if you’re prepared, you’ll be able to tailor the experience to one that’s perfect for you. Here are our suggestions for making the best of your time.

If you’ve just started messaging or are in the early stages of getting to know someone, not being able to meet for regular dates can be tricky. Video chat, calls and messaging can help bridge the gap, but that trickiness can be multiplied when it comes to marking a special occasion – a birthday or a new job. How do you celebrate with someone new when distance is an issue? We have some ideas for fun occasions…

Have you discovered online meetups yet? Organised virtual social events are a popular way for people to meet and get to know each other better while meeting face-to-face is difficult. We’ve hosted regular quiz nights and virtual tours of interesting sites, and Christian Connection members have been stepping up to organise virtual games nights, karaoke, poetry evenings and more. So what can you expect if you attend an online meetup? And how can you make the most of these social gatherings?

If you’ve been waving and messaging on Christian Connection you might soon be looking for some virtual date ideas. With the right technology, there’s something to suit everyone, providing plenty of opportunities to build deeper connections, get to know each other and have some fun. Video platforms make it possible to see each other while chatting, and there’s been a big increase in more structured activities too, from interactive games to couples book clubs, bible studies and live online events.  For those who’ve had long-distance relationships, video calling and distance dating will be familiar territory. But for those who haven’t – and for long-distance daters who need some inspiration – here are some ideas that’ll get you started.

At this moment in particular, making new connections can feel challenging. The corona crisis has left many feeling isolated. When Christian Connection was created we set out with a simple idea: helping Christians connect with other Christians. Since then thousands of couples have met on CC, new friendships have been formed and more connect every day. You’re telling us you want that to continue, that meeting people and feeling connected is just as important to you. So, we’ve been busy finding ways to make that happen. Here are just some of the things we’re doing.

Last month, I shared some tips for putting on an event at your church for single Christians. However, getting to spend time with other single believers doesn’t have to mean running an all-singing, all-dancing, all-praising extravaganza. If you’d prefer to start small, a local meet-up on your patch is a great way to make new connections and doesn’t take too much arranging. You don’t have to start a new career as an events organiser to meet people!

‘There aren’t many singles in my congregation and I’ve love to meet more believers in my area for friendship, fellowship and maybe more,’ said the email. ‘I’m thinking about putting on an event at my church for local singles, but I’m not sure where to start. Any advice, HopefulGirl?’

Have you ever been to a Christian event and thought, ‘Where are all the single people?’ Last year I went to a Christian conference and spent the whole week thinking this exactly as I looked across a sea of worshipping hands with wedding rings on.