Circle Up With Us This Fall!

Both can be true: One can be surrounded by people, and one can still feel deeply alone and disconnected.

I moved to this country at the age of 16. I already spoke the language. I did well in school even though I had transitioned countries, languages, and teaching philosophies. I quickly excelled in music not having had any formal education other than being taught “my bonnie lies over the ocean” on a cheap recorder by a teacher whose wig flew away on a windy day (a treasured memory). I was on the swim team, and while I was not the fastest, I was a hard worker. From the outside looking in, I was crushing it. I looked connected.

Many of us are able to function at a high capacity, giving the appearance of connectedness when we are in fact alone. Different iterations of this story have repeated themselves throughout my life. And statistics would say this is true for many of you as well.

On May 2, 2023, the United States Surgeon General called attention to the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in our country. Even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately half of U.S. adults reported experiencing measurable levels of loneliness. Disconnection fundamentally affects our mental, physical, and societal health.

At BCC, we believe that growth happens best in the context of meaningful community. Community Life is about to launch and there are several ways for you to circle up with others. Circling up at BCC offers you an avenue to connect beyond our tendency to stay on superficial frequencies. Superficial forms of engagement are so helpful when we begin relationships, but staying there never develops rich intimacy, and is a large contributor to feeling pervasive loneliness even when we are surrounded by people.

When I began attending BCC, I was slow to engage meaningfully with others. At the time, it was easier for me to serve rather than be vulnerable in a small group setting, and that was my slow entry into community life. Eventually, I began attending a home community group where I was loved and accepted despite my many inconsistencies.

If you are looking to break a pattern of loneliness, I invite you to take a look at Rooted, Women’s Community, Men’s Community, our Parent Lab, or serve regularly with one of our teams. I know it takes a great deal of courage to reject loneliness and risk being vulnerable to engage deeply with others. At BCC, we work to be a community of believers who seek to love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honoring each other. I’m praying you take the risk.

With love,

Aline
Pastor (Women's Community, Group Life)

Romans 12:9-13
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.