Feedback About Eastlake Community Church in Bothell, WA

i dont know anything about that particular church, but i think one visit is pretty fast to decide. I would recommend taking the pressure off yourself and visit a number of times and then see how you feel.

It might be good to try one or two other places to compare how you feel at each. when you find the right place, you will probably go there for very long time, so it's worth taking the time up front to find a place that is right for you and your family and matches your beliefs.

Hi,

I don't know about Eastlake specifically; my husband and I are members at Overlake Christian Church in Redmond. But I can give you a few tips for finding connections at a larger church.

1. Serve. Find an area to volunteer. You'll meet people, learn more about how the church runs and make a difference to others.

2. Join a life group. Life groups are usually about a half dozen or so families who meet regularly for meals and spiritual discussions. We've found fantastic friends and support through these groups are different churches.

3. Check if your church offers a membership class. Many larger church hold them to acquaint newcomers with the basic goals and beliefs of the leadership.

Enjoy your new church home. I'm glad you found a place where you and your kids feel comfortable!

It is big but they use Growth Groups to combat that lost feeling. Several times a year they offer small groups that you can join for 6 weeks. The topics range from bible and book studies to family activities and sports. The groups are small and each group you join you get to know those people really well. It's amazing after going to just a few groups how many people you will see and connect with at a service. The kids programs are wonderful and if your kids want to go that's half the battle Sunday morning.

I have been attending Eastlake for about 3 1/2 years. My kids love it there. It is such a great loving environment for them. It warms my heart when my almost 4 year old asks every morning "is it a church day"...

That being said - the best way to make close personal connections is to join a growth group. These are small groups that meet once a week for a 6-8 week period. The groups can be book studies, sports, philanthropic activities - there really is something for everyone. The next session of Growth Groups starts at the end of the month (sign up starts this weekend).

Even without joining a Growth Group, just by attending you will be amazed at how quickly you feel like part of the family. The teachers will know your kids, your kids will make friends and you will chat with others when you pick your kids up. I didn't join a Growth Group for the first year (always had the "too busy" excuse) and still made connections - but once I did, I loved it and haven't missed a session in over two years... I should have joined one at my first opportunity.

I recommend checking us out again... sign up for a group that interests you (there are usually a few family ones as well each session)... and enjoy...