In 2018, Tracey Crouch was named the United Kingdom’s first Minister for Loneliness. The appointment got its share of jokes, but mental health experts pointed out that loneliness is a serious issue in many countries, including the United States.
Loneliness has been defined as the perceived sense of isolation. The word “perceived” is important.
Loneliness is not just “being alone.” A homebound member of your church might feel lonely, but so might a young mother who teaches Sunday School and sits in your congregation with her family each week.
‘Hungry for connection’
The feeling of loneliness is hard to describe, but a lonely person often feels disconnected, unloved or purposeless.
One blogger described his feelings this way: “I was starving for attention. I was hungry for connection.”
King David wrote: “Look and see, there is no one at my right hand; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life” (Ps. 142:4).
Much research has been done on loneliness. A 2018 Cigna survey found that nearly half (46%) of Americans reported feeling lonely, left out or misunderstood. That number rose to 58% in a 2021 follow-up
survey.
Seniors (those 65 and older) are vulnerable, but young adults ages 18 to 34 are most likely to report feeling “left out” despite being more connected than ever through digital platforms like social media.
Our culture has shifted. Fewer people attend church, join civic or social groups, shop in stores and eat at restaurants. We don’t interact in person with neighbors and community helpers as much as we used to.
Something is missing. We feel the isolation, and it’s taking a toll.
Loneliness is closely linked to depression, anxiety and stress, as well as a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia as we age. Some turn to substances to cope. Our communities suffer because fewer people are volunteering and participating in organizations that support the vulnerable among us.
The tech world offers a few options. Apps like the Creative Lunch Club, the Breakfast and Timeleft facilitate sharing meals with strangers seeking non-romantic connections.
But it seems to me the church is commissioned for such a time as this.
Baked into the culture of a biblical church community is spending time together, which should include welcoming others into our groups.
Our ministries should be entry points for connecting lonely people to others and introducing them to Jesus.
We are people guided by purpose: to follow in the footsteps of Christ (1 Pet. 2:21) and to make disciples that do the same (Matt. 28:19–20).
How can you help?
The cure for loneliness is connection. Consider the individuals in your congregation or community who may feel isolated or unneeded. How can you include them this week?
If you are feeling lonely, consider trying a new small group. Sit in a different spot at church. Volunteer for an upcoming event.
What if we were all ministers for loneliness right where Jesus has put us?
EDITOR’S NOTE — This editorial was written by Carrie Brown McWhorter, special assignments editor of TAB Media Group and appeared in the Oct. 3 edition of The Alabama Baptist newspaper. To subscribe, click here.
Share with others: