What are some of the Frequently Asked Questions people have about ESC?

Q: “Can you call it something else? I think you should drop the term “Single” from the ministry!”

A: We could have, however after much prayer and discussion, we felt that it was important to keep it in the name. The name itself makes a statement, that singleness is an issue that we need to consider and that it should not be looked upon as a stigma but something that God can use to His glory.

Q: “Why have a singles ministry? I already attend women’s convention each year and feel this already meets my needs”

A: ESC is dedicated to serving singles. Just as we have family ministries and youth ministries, so we felt there was a need to have a dedicated ministry that addresses the needs and concerns of singles.

Q: “If I turn up, won’t I look desperate?”

A: Unfortunately that is how some people feel about ESC. That is why we are working hard to help people see that we are not about matching people up, but about building people up. We hope that those who come do so because they want to be built up and to be single-minded for Christ.

Q: “But I do want to meet someone!”

A: Thank you for your honesty. If you do meet someone at these events, great, but that is not our aim. Our aim is very clear - to help singles to keep being single-minded for Christ and to encourage and build them up in Christ likeness.

Q: “Why do I need to attend another talk which tells me – ‘just be content with your singleness’?”

A: Our aim is not to cover the same territory over and over again. ESC wants to provide support for singles, and to encourage them to grow in the Lord Jesus. We want to help singles think of ways they can fit into a church and be valuable and contributing members of it. As well as this, ESC events are an opportunity for fellowship with singles from other churches.

Q: “Is there an age limit?”

A: Generally speaking, ESC is seeking to minister to the 25+ years as we believe singleness becomes a more significant issue around this time. However, others are more than welcome to come along.

Q: “What happens at an ESC event?”

A: There are two types of events. Firstly there are the three ESC dinner functions during which time we are encouraged in God’s word, challenged to live for Christ and have a good time meeting and fellowshipping with other people. Secondly there are the ESC socials. These are just a great opportunity to make new friends and to have a good time.

Q: “Who is on the ESC Committee? Why are so many of them married?”

A: Members are from different evangelical churches who share a common concern for singles. The committee is made up of both singles and marrieds. Having both marrieds and singles on the committee provides for better understanding and a more balanced approached in serving both singles and the wider church.

Q: “Is ESC a Christian dating agency?”

A: ESC’s motto is to help singles become single-minded for Christ. Our aim is to encourage singles in their Christian growth. If they meet someone, that is great, but our goal is first and foremost to encourage, support and mobilize Christians to continue to serve the Lord in their singleness.

Q: “How can I get more involved in this ministry or find out more?”

A: We are always looking for people to help organise socials, assist at the ESC dinners, or to be a contact person for their own church. You can also be involved by inviting your friends to come along to ESC events and/or providing us with your suggestions and feedback. Please contact us at esc.staff@gmail.com and let us know if you can help in any of these ways.

Q: What happens if you get married/start a relationship? Do you no longer attend?

A: We think it would be great if you can keep coming along. The problem with many people who enter into a relationship is that they forget the singles. Being part of this is your way of helping singles not be neglected by marrieds and families. You may see the need to start a singles ministry at your own church. You can always start by inviting your friends, both singles and marrieds to an ESC dinner or social. This helps to raise the awareness of the need for a singles ministry.