Today is National Back to Church (NBtCD) Sunday; a day dedicated to encouraging individuals to reconnect with their faith communities. Held annually on the third Sunday of September, the initiative aims to welcome back those who may have stopped attending church or have never attended regularly. It’s a nationwide effort in many Christian churches across the U.S. to reach out, extend an invitation, and show that church is a place of community, hope, and spiritual renewal.
“not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:25 NKJV
Origins and Purpose of the NBtCD
The National Back to Church movement began in 2009 as a response to declining church attendance. It was created to help local congregations rekindle their outreach efforts, offering an open door to people who may feel disconnected from the church or intimidated about attending. The event provides a platform for churches to remind their communities that no matter how long someone has been away, they are always welcome to return.
The truth is that I have never heard about this Day until about a week ago. Maybe because various churches called it by another name. It’s not even on the National Day calendar; at least, I couldn’t find it. One of those Days that falls in the crack.
The core purpose is twofold:
- To Encourage a Renewed Connection: It’s about inviting people back into a faith-based community, where they can reconnect with God and others.
- To Create a Welcoming Environment: Churches aim to foster a more inclusive, welcoming atmosphere, helping to ease any discomfort people may feel about returning to or trying out church for the first time.
Why Does It Matter?
In today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world, people often feel isolated, overwhelmed, or even disconnected from deeper spiritual practices. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of community and spiritual grounding.
- Spiritual Renewal: Attending church offers more than just a religious experience. It provides a safe space for spiritual healing and personal growth. National Back to Church Sunday encourages people to revisit or explore that opportunity for renewal.
- Community Engagement: The day brings people together, creating a sense of unity and belonging. For many, being part of a church provides emotional, social, and moral support, especially during challenging times. It’s a space where individuals can find encouragement, hope, and shared purpose.
- Breaking the Barriers: Many individuals may have drifted from church due to past hurts, misconceptions, or feelings of inadequacy. National Back to Church Sunday is significant because it encourages churches to focus on breaking down these barriers, promoting forgiveness, healing, and acceptance.
- Reaffirming Faith and Values: In a culture that often questions traditional faith, this Day serves as a gentle call back to the values of love, community, faith, and service. It encourages individuals to reflect on the importance of faith in their lives and the role it can play in shaping their daily decisions and actions.
How Churches Participate
Many churches host special services, outreach programs, or social events to mark National Back to Church Sunday. Sermons are often focused on themes like forgiveness, renewal, hope, and the importance of community. Some churches offer small groups, prayer circles, or fellowship activities to help visitors feel more integrated and to foster connections beyond Sunday service.
For those who have felt distant from their faith or unsure about where they stand, this day serves as a reminder …
Church leaders also use this day to remind their congregations to reach out and invite others. They may encourage members to personally extend invitations to friends, family, and neighbors who might benefit from reconnecting with the church.
The Real Significance
At its core, National Back to Church Sunday is not just about boosting church attendance for a single day. It’s about reigniting a sense of spiritual belonging and fostering long-term connections within a faith community. For those who have felt distant from their faith or unsure about where they stand, this day serves as a reminder that they are always welcome back, no matter where they are on their spiritual journey.
It is also a time for the church to reaffirm its mission of love, inclusivity, and grace—demonstrating that the doors are open for everyone, not just on Back to Church Sunday, but every day of the year.
In a world where isolation is increasingly common, this day helps churches fulfill their role as places of refuge, healing, and hope. It is a chance for people to rediscover the transformative power of faith in community, to experience God’s love in a new way, and to know that they are not alone on their journey.
In conclusion, National Back to Church Sunday is a vital opportunity for churches and individuals alike to bridge the gap between disconnection and community. It serves as a reminder that the church is not just a building but a place where relationships are nurtured, faith is reignited, and hope is restored. Whether you’re a regular attendee, someone who has drifted away, or someone looking for spiritual connection, this day invites you to come as you are and find a place where you belong.
Final Note:
You might have been one wounded by church people; pastors, or church leaders. Welcome to the “ivy league” club. 😬 Seriously though, sorry – I’m sorry you experienced that. I did, too. Those wounds might have driven you away from church or be repelled by Christians, But I hope that you choose this Day to believe and trust God again. It wasn’t God or Jesus who hurt or wounded you, but wo/man (that is, the flesh). They didn’t know any better and have probably been convicted for it, too.
Hurting people hurt people. We just don’t want it to be us!
Most of us became Christians for a reason and by the intercession of someone. And it’s okay to stay in church for that reason or person. But, I beseech you, in the Name of Jesus, do not allow that reason or person, or any reason, anyone or anything whatsoever to separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Neither allow yourself to get (or grow) cold of the Trinity (God the Father, Jesus His Son, and the Holy Spirit our Helper).
I pray that God rekindles His fire of love in you today in Jesus Name. Shalom
Think-Talk 