
Let’s make 2025 the year we find new friends! You in? It will take some effort and confidence — you’ll have to be willing to get uncomfortable, but it’s worth it … promise. Whether you're a social butterfly or shy around new people, there are creative and meaningful ways to meet friends this year. After all, the Bible reminds us, "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor" (Ecclesiastes 4:9). Here are 25 unique ways to grow your circle of friends.
1. Volunteer for a Local Church Project
Offer your time to organize events, decorate for gatherings, or help in outreach programs. Not only will you meet like-minded individuals, but you’ll also feel great giving back. Be open to conversations while you work together — people often bond over shared purpose.
2. Start a “Walk and Pray” Group
Invite neighbors to walk around and pray for your community. This is a great way to connect on a spiritual level while enjoying fresh air and exercise. Over time, these walks can turn into deep friendships grounded in faith.
3. Host a “Board Game Revival” Night
Dust off those games and invite people over for fun and nostalgia — it’s a great icebreaker! Laughter and friendly competition naturally bring folks closer. Plus, you can tailor the night to include games that encourage teamwork.
4. Teach Yourself a New Skill … with Strangers
Instead of solo learning, join a pottery or cooking class. Everyone feels a little awkward when trying something new, so breaking down walls is easy. You’ll have plenty to talk about and share as you master a new skill together.
5. Be a Mentor to Someone Younger
Connect with teens or younger adults who need guidance. You can offer them advice and encouragement; often, they’ll teach you a thing or two in return! Building relationships across generations is rewarding and meaningful for both sides. (You might flip the switch and ask someone older to be your mentor, too!)
6. Bring Cookies to New Neighbors
Who says this is outdated? Baking something sweet and delivering it to neighbors, new and old, is a simple, thoughtful gesture. You never know — it could lead to coffee invites, shared meals, and lasting friendships.
7. Try a “No Phones” Coffee Hangout
Suggest meeting new friends where phones are off-limits. You’ll be surprised by how much you learn about each other without distractions. Encourage open and meaningful conversations over your favorite drinks.
8. Use an App To Find Friends
Sometimes, technology can help you meet the right people. Take Upward, for example! Traditionally a dating app, now you can use it to find Christian friends, too! By focusing on shared values and faith, it’s a great way to find people who are looking for similar meaningful relationships.
9. Plant a Garden With Your Community
Get your hands dirty and work together to grow something beautiful and lasting. Whether it’s vegetables or flowers, the process encourages teamwork. Plus, you can share stories while you dig, plant, and water.
10. Make the First Move at Church
If you’re waiting for someone to approach you, flip the script! Say hello to someone sitting alone. Breaking the ice is often all it takes, and you might make someone else feel welcomed and seen. Remember, "Do to others as you would have them do to you" (Luke 6:31).
11. Launch a DIY Club
Try posting an invite on social media for people who want to create homemade crafts. Hands-on projects spark conversations and laughter. From making candles to painting, you’ll bond over shared creativity.
12. Attend a Worship Festival, Music Camp, or Retreat
These events bring like-minded people together through shared faith and fun. Singing, laughing, and learning together makes it easy to find people you click with. Plus, you’ll leave inspired and spiritually recharged.
13. Join a “Pet Playdate” Meetup
If you have a dog, find a playgroup. Pets are amazing conversation starters! While your furry friends mingle, you can connect with others who share your love for animals.
14. Join a Local Sports Team or Club
Sports are a classic way to meet people and find new friends! Whether it’s a casual kickball league or a tennis club, playing with teammates helps you bond quickly. Even if you’re not super athletic, cheering each other on creates a fun and supportive environment.
15. Co-Host a Neighborhood Clean-Up
Be the person who inspires others to make your area cleaner. Get people involved and chat while you pick up litter. A shared goal builds unity and pride in your community.
16. Create a Bookshelf Swapping Spot
Put up a “Take a Book, Leave a Book” shelf and partner with others to maintain it. This idea can attract people who love books, sparking conversations over your favorite stories. You’ll feel good sharing and discovering new literature. You can set it up in your neighborhood or at your church or local coffee shop.
17. Attend Community Events or Festivals
Your town’s events are full of opportunities to find new friends! Whether it’s a farmer’s market, a concert, or a holiday festival, you’ll find people who enjoy the same things you do. A quick “hello” to someone at the next booth could spark a new friendship.
18. Be a Babysitter-for-a-Day
Offer free babysitting for tired parents at church. They’ll remember your kindness and perhaps invite you into their family circle. Plus, kids are great at breaking the ice — just ask them to tell you a silly joke!
19. Participate in Online Bible Study Communities
Even from home, you can find rich connections in faith-filled groups online. Look for communities with active discussions and genuine fellowship. You might find people you’ll eventually meet in person.
20. Host a Vision Board Party
Invite people to create vision boards with their goals for the year — faith and personal. Sharing hopes and dreams can spark meaningful, vulnerable conversations. Encourage each other to chase those dreams!
21. Start a Hike and Devotion Club
Take weekly nature walks where you reflect on scripture together. Being outdoors helps you connect with God while strengthening friendships. Walking and talking allows conversations to flow naturally.
22. Learn To Make Cultural Recipes Together
Ask people in your community to share family recipes and cook together. Food always brings people closer, especially when you can share a delicious meal afterward. Plus, you’ll get a taste of their culture — literally!
23. Run an Encourage-athon on Social Media
Tag others and leave uplifting comments throughout the day. Ending negativity online can inspire real-life connections. The kind person you support might just reach out to thank you.
24. Spend Time at a Library or Coffee Shop
These cozy spots are a great place to find new friends at a relaxed pace. Strike up a conversation with someone over the book they’re reading or ask for a coffee recommendation. Sometimes, a simple chat grows into something meaningful.
25. Pray for Someone and Tell Them
You can’t beat this one — reach out to someone, tell them you’re praying for them, and watch your connection grow. This simple gesture shows care and consideration that builds trust, which is the foundation of a long-lasting friendship.
Friendship doesn’t have to be complicated. Take the first step, trust God, and watch amazing relationships blossom!
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