One of the things we hear time and time again from people who have joined or visited the church is the importance of welcome. A welcome that says ‘come as you are – we’re glad you’re here’ and doesn’t impose a list of requirements before you can enter. But can you belong before you believe?We all want to belong somewhere, don’t we. But what is belonging? And why does it matter? Perhaps it’s easier to understand when we think about how not belonging feels: Phoebe Stone, the children’s author once said “Not belonging is a terrible feeling. It feels awkward and it hurts, as if you were wearing someone else’s shoes”.We all want to feel known and valued, and that feels even more important in church.“Church is not an organisation you join; it’s a family where you belong, a home where you’re loved, and a hospital where you find healing” says Nicky Gumbel, but it’s not always a process that’s straightforward and easy. So in this series, we’re going to break it down into stages and look at some of the elements that contribute to a true sense of belonging.The Forge Community Church is a church in Suffolk with a mission to help people find and follow Jesus. The Forge meet physically in Debenham Community Center and have environments for adults kids and youth. We also offer church online so you can connect with the Forge anywhere, anytime, not just those in Mid Suffolk.OUR MISSION: To help people find and follow Jesus.OUR VISION: To be a church community that unchurched people love to be part of.We know that life is tough; now more than ever. We’re sure you’ve got questions and uncertainties, but we believe Jesus can make difference, that faith can bring hope; even in these times and that the Church should be light in the darkness. We’re embracing this new all-digital landscape and can’t wait to interact with you online. We will ensure you receive a warm welcome whether you tune in every Sunday, or if church is new/unfamiliar territory for you.We love that you are able to be part of our community from the comfort of your own home. Feel free to interact through the week on social media, using the links below, or join us at Debenham Community Center every Sunday at 10:30amwww.forgechurch.com/ww.facebook.com/forgechurchukwww.instagram.com/forgechurchuk/ / forgechurch #ForgeChurch