Belonging is a basic human desire, whether to a family, group or community. Belonging helps
us to build relationships with one another on a much deeper level allowing us to share life’s
experiences, the good and the bad ensuring we are not alone as we journey through life. As a
Anglican Christian community we also share the traditions and stories of our heritage and use
these a s a basis to help us understand ourselves.
Belonging to any group can be challenging as we learn the particular way a group functions
and this is the same for a church as well. We have our own language and rituals that help us
explain our past and point us in new directions.
As an Anglican Church we accept a wide range of understandings about God allowing us to
experience the richness God offers us. Because of this al are welcome to come and be part of
what we have to offer, and belong.
Being involved is synonymous with belonging! When you become part of any group there
is an expectation that everyone contributes in some form to the greater good of all members.
Church is no different although we also carry people along with us when they need to rest.
Here are some ways in which people help out at AGAMD and therefore find a greater sense
of belonging as they commit themselves to the work of the church.
During worship
• music
• readings
• prayers
• greeting people
• leading worship
• flowers
• morning tea
Other Church activities
• joining our ‘Black Dove’ youth group
• home groups
• bible studies
• fellowship groups
• fundraising
Outreach
• Helping with our mainly music programme
• Pub quiz nights
• Services to the local rest home
‘By building relations we create a source of love and personal pride and belonging
that makes living in a chaotic world easier’.
Susan Lieberman