More Than Sundays
As a young adult, I never thought about becoming a church member. After high school, I thought the church was unmindful, and honestly, romping outside my parents' house was a priority. Attending church was sparse. I showed up late and sometimes left earlier than the precepts allowed. But later in life, I found that full membership in the church is relevant both spiritually and socially.
Now, as an older, confirmed Catholic adult, my relationship with Jesus Christ and other people is strengthened in the church. The actions of Baptism and Confirmation are social aspects of church membership that increase the probability of a spiritual experience. Both changed my life and led me into community boundlessly, and recently, at a church function, a young man wanted to share with me his experience of becoming a member of my church.
"I want to share my experience with you after I recently became a parish member. I remember how welcoming you and the parish staff were as I prayed that the Holy Spirit would guide me in growing in the virtue of faith as I returned to the church. I moved to Austin a year and a half ago for work and could not manage my schedule to make room for active participation and service to God until June of this year. But the Ministry Guide & Discernment helped me create a path. The fruit of your work in the ministries you propose leads others to Christ. I am thankful and appreciate your time. I plan on attending a choir in-service later to explore possibilities to serve."
I believe that there are a lot of benefits to church membership, and below are my personal top seven:
Unity. I like being part of a larger community where I can help keep the Gospel Message alive.
Appreciation. Christ sacrificed, and serving others in His name is the least I can do.
Prayer. At times, I need to talk to God. The church has millions of beautiful prayers to practice.
Greater than me. The body of Christ is vast, and all members are called to the same house.
Family. Having a family requires leadership. I strive to emulate the Head of the Church.
Identification. I am Catholic, so service, sacraments, and scripture lead my life.
Holy Communion. I must receive Jesus in all ways; he is the bread of my life.
If you or someone you know would like to deepen the significance of church membership, please consider the following opportunity:
Awaken Your Gifts Charism Reflection June, 2026
I cannot live life in the shadows, nor do I want to. Let’s chat, and I can introduce you to a meaningful experience of Church Membership.
