I don’t feel very welcome in my parish. How can I change this?

First consider why you might feel that. Has someone or something made you feel unwelcome? Do others seem to feel welcome there? What might ‘feeling welcome’ look like?

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Are there opportunities to meet other parishioners such as tea/coffee after Mass or a social event?

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If so, go to one and speak to a couple of people or ask the parish priest to introduce you to a few people.

Often it is easier to get to know people when you have a shared task rather than by making small talk.  Is there a role you could do or a team you could join in your parish in which you meet others whilst doing something? If there is someone or something making you feel unwelcome in the parish talk to the priest about it – he may be able to help find a solution.

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If none of that helps, you could go to a neighbouring parish instead, but don’t give up on the church entirely!