I am a woman in my late 20s, living in a small city and looking for a community. I’ve been thinking about joining a church for several years and recently came across the local Unitarian Universalist church. This feels like it could be a good fit.

I don’t have a great relationship with my family and don’t have any close friends. I’m really lonely and feel very disconnected from everyone. I have a strong faith that’s a mix of spiritualism and paganism with a foundation in Christianity and some Buddhist ideals. I know what my beliefs are, but the best way I can find to define myself is a truth-seeker.

I have a lot of social anxiety. Going alone to any event, let alone a church I will consider joining, is daunting. A big concern is that I won’t find people to click with because of my age group. The church seems to have a demographic starting at 30-somethings with children through older adults. Will I be out of place? I’m also worried I’ll be pressured to join the congregation or their groups/donate financially. I don’t have a ton of experience with church in general.

I’ve been going through a change in my life over the last few weeks and feel particularly sad. I’m trying to encourage myself to actually go tomorrow. Any words of encouragement would be greatly appreciated. TIA