

What is "Learned Loneliness?"
Some of your daily habits may be causing you to feel lonely. I will suggest some things you can do to try to bring more socialization into your life. According to a 2024 poll, one in three Americans report feeling lonely at least once per week. And one in ten say they feel lonely every day. Experts generally describe loneliness as a state of distress or discomfort due to a gap between a person’s desire for social connection and their actual experiences of socially connecting with others.
Aspects of loneliness can be learned, meaning it may be due to habits that you’ve created on your own accord. Many of us got into some comfortable patterns during the pandemic when we were lying low to avoid crowds. But some of these pastimes may have stuck around and may have inadvertently lead us to feeling lonelier than ever. Here are some of these habits we may want to change:
Let us begin with in-person worship on Sundays. Hopefully as we move into the new year and eventually receive more moderate weather, you will put Sunday worship on your calendar if you have not been attending weekly. If not weekly, maybe you can come once or twice a month. We have Euchre once a month here at First UCC on the second Saturday at 6:30 pm. The January Euchre Night had more non-members in attendance than members of our congregation. The reports I heard from January Euchre echoed, “the more the merrier!”
Another current option here at First UCC Richmond in the New Year is the four-week Bible Study that began January 15. Wednesday evenings in January was to accommodate New Year’s Resolutions. If you can’t come in person, you can gain access to the sessions through our website and on YouTube. Looking towards Lent I would like to have a Brunch Study since many are NOT too excited about coming out in the evening.
Consider Eating Out. Your nightly takeout habit is likely preventing you from socializing. Call up a friend or a family member and plan to head out to eat. It can be a great way to get a delicious meal and sneak in some social time. If you live in Richmond, grab a table at the restaurant and pull up a chair next to some of your neighbors. Getting out of your home to eat a meal with others is often a great way to spend some time and chat with people. And even if you venture out for a meal solo, you’ll be able to interact with wait staff and other restaurant patrons.
Run Your Errands in Person. Going to the store is an opportunity for so much socialization. You’ll have a chance to talk to people like the store greeter, the cashier, a sales associate, maybe other shoppers. You may even run into someone you know. Some grocery stores are so keen on this trend of helping seniors who feel isolated get some in-person shopping socialization that they are trying out having special slow checkout lanes which allow extra time for chatting at the register.
Consider Connecting Through Technology. While there are many benefits to in-person gatherings, technology connections are better than no connections. Staying in touch with loved ones through daily phone calls, texts, video chats or social media is good. If you aren’t skilled in the realm of technology, check with your local library--they may offer assistance with social media. If you have an iPhone, be sure to have it charged and use it.
Try Something New. You used to try out new workout classes at your Parks and Rec. Check the bulletin board at your local community center for new classes they will be hosting and purchase Groupons to try out all sorts of interesting experiences. Margo at Richmond’s Parks and Recreation is friendly and most helpful. Don’t be shy, check with Margo about a ‘pickleball’ lesson or to participate in the Chili Bake-off or take a new class or even volunteer. Shake yourself out of your norm and challenge yourself to go back to trying a few new experiences.
Don’t know where to start? Meals on Wheels needs volunteers. “Think outside the box when it comes to connecting with others,” says Manly. “Many activities and connections can be formed through social clubs, hobby groups, spiritual/religious venues, and health-oriented forums.” Walking Clubs work well in nice weather. Get Outside More. Flex your social skills. “Get outside as much as possible!” says Manly. “Whether you take a walk, go to the store, or sit in the park, use time outside to engage with others, even if only to smile, chat, and feel the world around you.” Even a simple walk around the block will give you the opportunity to stop and make small talk with a neighbor. Consider accepting and extending more invitations. Tuesday is $5 day at the Chesterfield Crossing Theater. Meet for a movie and then take in lunch close by.
Pastor KatieD+
Jimmy John’s Field Faith Night Game
Friday, July 18
Information was in the February Newsletter: We need to know how many are planning to participate. Remember, this is for any of your friends and neighbors, just a fun get together to watch a game and see fireworks.
Four Week Bible Study
Jesus is the Fulfillment of the Hebrew Scriptures
Week 1:
- YouTube discussion
- Handout: Names of God
Week 2:
Week 3:
Morning Reflections
Friday, 2025 January 31 Reflection - Paul - Conversion is a Journey not an Arrival
It has come to my attention that besides my husband there are others who don't appreciate Paul and upon remembering that denominations that do saints do a day about the Conversion of Paul I reflected and realized that for Paul it was never a 'this is the day that my eyes got opened to God' but many days that brought him to a full understanding. It was not a snap thing and it is not that a 'this is the day of my beg change' for most it is a journey. We've had a 2nd reading from Paul who actually wrote most of the New Testament and yes it is from an early Paul that we hear some of the quotes that many love to throw around. Well, I do not have my own computer at present and there has been some serious time to reflect and even mention my own stupidity way back when Rainbow 1-2-3 happened that someone opened my eyes. KatieD+
Pastor's Reports to Council
Pastor Katie’s Office Hours and Pastoral Care
If Pastor Katie is not in the office when you need pastoral care, please know that Pastor Katie is always glad to take your call or to arrange a day and time to meet with you.
Cell number: 586-202-8644
Home phone: 586-716-9543.
You can also call the office at 586-727-3155 and leave a message with Helen or on the answering machine. In the old days, hospitals and rehab/nursing facilities used to inform pastors when one of their flock was admitted. That doesn’t happen anymore, so please feel free to give us a call when needed.
Rev. Katie Dailey, Pastor
E-Mail: daileystory@gmail.com
Phone: CELL: 586-202-8644
Office hours:Pastor Katie is available before worship on Sundays from 9 - 10 am and then again
after worship from 11 am - 1 pm. She is also in on Wednesdays from 10 am until 2 pm.
OFFICE: 586-727-3155
Church E-Mail: firstunitedcc@outlook.com
OFFICE HOURS:
The secretary is in the office on Tuesdays, 8:30 am —12 noon and Fridays 8:30 am till 1 pm. If you need additional assistance at other times, please send Helen an email at firstunitedcc@outlook.com or leave a phone message at the church office: 586-727-3155.
Thank you.