Okay, this topic has come up in a number of conversations over the year and a half I've been in Philly . . . so maybe this is the place to get at least a few answers.

Most of the people I know here (primarily through work) are either Catholic, nothing, Jewish, or live farther out in the suburbs, but there are a couple of other newer "city" folk (who, like me have relocated from other parts of the country, like the midwest or the south, for jobs in Philly) I've met who have joined me in wondering:

If you're a liberal protestant, where do you go in the city or very near suburbs if you want to meet other like-minded people and find a community where you can feel part of something as a newcomer to Philly? Which churches would have the most people in the 30-something demographic?

This is not the old "where can I go to meet dates at church?" question. When I lived in the south, large churches were teeming with post-college 20-somethings spouse-hunting -- very scary scene. That's not the idea here.

I could tell you several places if you were willing to hang out with Catholics ...

http://www.stjohnsphilly.com/sig.html

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Illegal aliens have always been a problem in the United States. Ask any Indian. - Robert Orben

There are quite a few liberal/progressive congregations in and around the city... you may try some of the Episcopal churches and perhaps even consider checking out Unitarian churches if you are open to liberal perspectives beyond protestantism...There are also a lot of "mega-churches" in the Philly area, but a lot of them are a bit more conservative in their theology- such as Calvary Chapel, Church of the Saviour, etc.

There are also A LOT of smaller churches that are great places to meet friendly people and avoid huge crowds... I would recommend you start by checking out the churches in and around your neighborhood- give each church a couple of weeks. Be open-minded, see where you feel most at home and where you believe God is leading you- you'll find the right one...

Best wishes with your search!

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Peace,

John

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If you're planning to stay in Rox, you ought to find a church up there. There've got to be some churchgoing folks in the forum up there.

Try posting a second separate question in the Rox/manayunk forum in case no one is looking at Spirituality.

It seems to me that going to church and the social life that evolves from it should be somewhere close by - not something that causes you lots of work/effort, etc. If it means traveling 45 minutes on the bus, you won't go very often.

(Actually, should have said: "I wouldn't go very often.")

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“Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.” - Jane Jacobs

I would highly recommend Calvary Chapel. I went quite a few times. It was great. Plus I got to meet Cross Movement.

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CafeParents.com

The Archdioces of Philadelphia's Young Adult Ministry is holding Theology on Tap at Finnigan's Wake (3rd & Spring Garden). Theology on Tap be on Thursdays from July 7 to August 11 from 7 pm to 9 pm.

Admission is free. For more information, call Rosey Lester at 215-965-4635 or visit www.oyya.org.

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Illegal aliens have always been a problem in the United States. Ask any Indian. - Robert Orben

That's very nice that the Catholic Church is preparing young people to more easily identify their higher power while intoxicated.

High praise from a "High Priestess of the Church of the Whale Penis".

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Illegal aliens have always been a problem in the United States. Ask any Indian. - Robert Orben

And Damn Proud of It.

Newman Catholic Student Community

http://www.newman.upenn.edu/

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Illegal aliens have always been a problem in the United States. Ask any Indian. - Robert Orben