It Takes a Church

"It Takes a Church" first hit the airwaves in 2014 on Game Show Network, marking a departure from the channel's typical quizzes and talent contests. Filled with wholesome reality-TV entertainment, the show offers a fresh take on matchmaking TV shows. This show, instead, revolves within the religious community and the church. It serves not just as entertainment, but also as a portrayal of the critical role churches play in supporting individuals' emotional life and creating strong social bonds among their members.

The premise of the show combines two seemingly dissimilar elements: faith and love. The show focuses on single, pious participants who are looking for love, but the twist is that the matchmaking is done by their church community. Every episode begins with a single member of a church revealed as the chosen bachelor or bachelorette who is involved in the quest for love. The unsuspecting individuals usually learn they are the episode's featured single during a surprise announcement at a seemingly normal church service.

The immediate look of surprise on their faces is priceless, and from there the show's fun and frolic really begins. What's unique about "It Takes a Church" role in this search for love is the active involvement of the entire church community. The community, with its intimate understanding of the single member's hopes, dreams, interests, values, and even past romantic relationships, becomes the perfect ambassador for their search for romance.

The congregation pitches in, along with the pastor, nominating potential suitors from within or outside their community. This process also involves the congregation in some fun and games, creating an engaging and enjoyable atmosphere for all participants. The church's matchmaking culminates with a group of suitable suitors nominated for the single man or woman. These candidates then undergo a series of faith-based challenges and romantic dates, designed to showcase their compatibility with the single.

One of the key aspects that distinguishes "It Takes a Church" from other reality dating shows is the absence of embarrassing eliminations. The church community, which plays the role of the collective Cupid, is equally invested in both the single member, who is like a family member to them, and the romantic candidates — who are either from their own community or are treated with respect considering the sacred forum of the church. "It Takes a Church" features a civil and dignified selection process, avoiding the drama and tension that characterizes many other reality dating shows.

Another unique aspect of the show is that it not only injects an element of faith into the dating genre but also celebrates the power and warmth of community. The show returns to a more traditional form of dating, where people familiar with the bachelor or bachelorette play a crucial role in helping them find suitable partners. It recreates a charming, old-world aura where churches, communities, and neighbors knew each other intimately and cared about each other's welfare.

Every episode comes to a close with an appealing finale. The single individual amidst the congregation, with the advice of the pastor and the cheering of the church members, must choose one person from the potential matches. Once the choice is made, the couple embarks on their dating journey, hoping to discover love, understanding, and companionship.

Hosted by Grammy-nominated Christian singer Natalie Grant, the show provides a platform for singles to find their potential life partners - all in the full view and with the full support of their entire church community. She brings an air of elegance and excitement to the show, providing encouragement and commentary throughout the process.

"It Takes a Church" highlights the fusion of faith, love, and community. Suitable for family viewing, it upholds the values of love, mutual respect, community bonding, and faith in Divine Providence over an individual's life, including their romantic relationships. Instead of fiery dramatic flare-ups, it thrives on the warmth of the church's loving members, the cordial interactions amongst potential suitors, and a shared hope for sacred, lasting love.

"It Takes a Church" is a heartwarming, family-friendly series perfect for viewers who wish to see romance unfold through faith's lens. It offers warmth, love, and a close-knit community that not only builds relationships but draws out the intricate threads of love and marriage backed by faith.