It's well known that fringe Christians—those whose church involvement tops out with Sunday morning worship and the occasional potluck—are spiritually shallow and uncommitted to spiritual growth. Real and intimate connection with other Christians comes from belonging to small groups, right?

Maybe not, suggests the author, who lays out four kinds of belonging that people need—public, social, personal, and intimate—and points out that church small groups often don't satisfy each kind of belonging.

Let's face it—small groups work for some, while others find all the fulfillment they need in public worship. The Search to Belong helps church leaders sort out not only what kind of community parishioners are looking for, but also how to cultivate all levels of community.

Here is a practical guide for pastors and other church leaders who struggle with building communities of believers in a culture that values belonging over believing.