| Our History
By Miss Tracy Taylor
Rhode Island Christian Singles Fellowship is a ministry that got its start a couple of years ago as an offshoot from a divorce-care class at Christ Church in East Greenwich. The group had become close, almost like family, and they wanted to continue the bonds of friendship that had formed. One person explained that it was the first time that she had felt accepted and comfortable in a church in a long time. Another reported that now he had a place to verbalize his questions and know that he was among those who were seeking a closer relationship to God. Others reported being lonely and secluded with no place to go where they felt they fit in. This fellowship provided a safe haven. There was a need to help singles (along with divorced, widowed) be part of society without feeling the pressure of the matchmaking obsession. In this ministry they felt involved and accepted and many have found a purpose for their life other then the one that the world had forced upon them. From Baptist, Methodist, Evangelical, Roman Catholic and numerous other denominations has emerged a blending of Christian hope formed from two common denominators, being single and having faith. With each of those denominators you find varying degrees in individuals who attend. Some singles are not comfortable with being single while others have learned to be content with this season in their life and are making it work. This is also true of faith. There are those who believe and yet have questions, to those who have a strong walk with the Lord and still others who are clearly seeking answers. The group has adopted one of Christ Church's core values “Come as you are”. Wherever singles are in life it is apparent that being connected is important. God intended people to be together to help and love one another and to seek His kingdom. This fellowship has much to offer singles in the various stages of their lives. The ministry offers a monthly worship service that has become the pivotal point of the group. It is usually the second Saturday of each month and starts out with dinner and fellowship at 6:00PM followed by the service, which includes praise music and a featured speaker. After service there is a discussion time with desert and coffee. For single parents there is babysitting on the premise. Everything is a free-will donation so that the ability to pay is not a deterrent to attending. Also offered are weekly activities and impromptu events that allow folks to continue in fellowship beyond the monthly meeting. Individuals are encouraged to attend a church of their choice for Sunday services or come to one of several Christ Church services. There is a phone message line at the Church for those without internet connection. |
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