Afterchurch

/ˈæftərˌtʃɝtʃ/ noun

Definition

Social activities, socializing, or gatherings that occur after a church service, or a coffee hour.

Etymology

Compound of 'after' and 'church' (Old English cirice, from Greek kyriake, 'of the Lord'). A colloquial term for post-service fellowship common in many religious communities.

Kelly Says

The afterchurch gathering is where real community happens—while the service is formal and scripted, the coffee hour afterward is where people share burdens, make friends, and build the social bonds that keep congregations together. Many churches are learning that losing this time is losing their identity.

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