Why You Aren’t Having Fun at Church—And How to Have More of It

Let’s just say it:

Sometimes church doesn’t feel fun.

Sometimes it feels long, boring, awkward, or even lonely.

You sit in sacrament meeting surrounded by people… and wonder why you’re not feeling what you want to feel. Or worse—why everyone else seems to be getting something you’re not.

If you’ve ever felt that way, you're not alone. But here’s the good news: church is meant to be joyful. Not always loud or exciting—but spiritually filling, socially connective, and yes—fun in the best, soul-satisfying kind of way.

If you haven’t had fun at church in a while… don’t give up on it.Try again. Show up differently. Ask the Lord to help you find delight in your discipleship.

Because faith is fun.

And church can be, too.

If you’re not feeling that, here are a few reasons why—and what to do about it:

1. You’re Waiting to Be Entertained Instead of Engaged

Church isn’t a performance—it’s a participation event. If we sit back and wait for someone to say something inspiring, teach a flawless lesson, or make us feel welcome… we might miss the whole point. The best experiences come when we actively engage:

• Come with questions and listen for answers

• Volunteer to read or comment in class

• Introduce yourself to someone new

• Sing with all your heart

• Sit near someone who looks lonely

The Spirit thrives in environments where we show up with Him, not just wait to feel Him.

2. You’re Expecting Perfect People

Spoiler alert: the church is full of imperfect people trying to follow a perfect Savior. That includes noisy kids, distracted elders, underprepared teachers, and awkward small talk. If you’re waiting for church to feel meaningful because everyone else is doing everything right, you’ll probably be disappointed.

But if you walk in thinking,“How can I help someone else feel loved today?”your whole experience changes.

Because joy comes not from being impressed—but from being involved.

3. You’re Not Letting the Gospel Be Personal

Church can start to feel dry when we treat it like a checklist. But the gospel is not just doctrine—it’s divine connection.

If sacrament meeting feels stale, try making it sacred:

• Repent and come ready to renew

• Pray before you walk in

• Bring a journal and write down impressions

• Think about Jesus Christ the entire time the sacrament is passed

When the gospel becomes personal, church becomes powerful.

4. You’re Withholding Your Gifts

You have gifts the Lord wants you to use—at church. Whether it’s a kind heart, a sense of humor, an ability to organize or teach or uplift—when you keep those gifts to yourself, everyone misses out (including you!).

Raise your hand. Join the discussion. Offer help.Fun comes when we give ourselves permission to show up as ourselves.

5. You’re Physically Uncomfortable

Church can be a sensory nightmare for some. Think of the ways you can physically prepare to sit and listen:

• Unless you're fasting, fill your belly. Hunger can be a big distraction.

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that makes you feel confident. If it's too tight, itchy, or makes you feel insecure, you'll be preoccupied with that discomfort.

• Go for a two-minute walk between classes. If you're feeling wiggly and restless, take a quick lap around the building.

• Bring a fidget that can keep your hands busy. Silly putty or a small notebook are great, even for grown-ups!

6. You're Feeling Judged

Maybe you're feeling embarrassed by your kids' behavior at church, or someone said something unkind, or perhaps you're struggling with an issue that requires the atonement. No matter what is making you feel judged or insecure, you belong at church.

If meeting with the bishop is warranted, don't put it off. Start the healing process as soon as you can. If the issue is judgment or contention within the ward, try not to worry. Your (and your kids') spiritual journey is no one's business. Put together a church bag that makes everyone in your family happy. Listen to uplifting music you love on the drive to church. Go out of your way to say kind things to the people who have offended you. Your own heart will soften, and theirs might too.

7. You’re Carrying a Heavy Heart Alone

Sometimes church isn’t fun because… life isn’t. If you're grieving, doubting, burned out, or battling silent struggles, church might feel like a place where everyone is smiling but you.

But this is exactly where you’re meant to be.

You don’t have to fake it.You don’t have to say “I’m fine.”You’re allowed to bring your full, messy, honest self—and let Christ meet you there.

And maybe that won’t feel fun right away. But it can feel safe, real, and eventually—joyful.

So... How Do You Have More Fun at Church?

Here’s the secret: Fun at church isn’t about being entertained. It’s about being engaged in the work of God, side by side with other imperfect saints, fueled by grace, and filled with purpose.

Try this:

• Show up early

• Stay a few minutes after

• Sit with someone new

• Compliment a talk or lesson

• Laugh with the kids in your class

• Bring snacks and fidgets if needed (no shame!)

• Look for miracles, not mistakes

• Invite the Spirit before you arrive

• Serve someone quietly and secretly

• Make an effort to facilitate a sense of community

And remember this:

“Men are that they might have joy.” —2 Nephi 2:25

That includes Sundays.