A friendship is one of the most important human and Christian relationships we can have.
While family members have a certain natural responsibility to care for one another, friends choose to take on that responsibility freely. A true friend chooses to love you and be there for you through thick and thin, not out of necessity, but out of genuine care for the other.
Aristotle once said “What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies.” A true friend is more than someone you simply share experiences or interests with- they are someone you connect with on a deeper level.
In order to build deep and lasting friendships, we recommend a faith-based approach. By bringing your love for God into your relationships, you allow for deeper, more meaningful connections with others that transform not only superficial aspects of your life, but touch your soul as well.
One of the keys to nurturing such friendships is openness. When friends share their faith journeys—their struggles, joys, and questions—they allow vulnerability to build trust and understanding. It’s important to pray together, whether through spontaneous prayer, attending Mass, or praying the Rosary. These shared spiritual practices can help center the relationship on Christ.
Another essential element is accountability. True friends help each other grow in holiness. They offer encouragement when one’s faith is wavering and gently guide each other back when mistakes are made. Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." Faith-based friendships allow this mutual sharpening to occur in an atmosphere of love and respect.
Generosity also plays a role in these relationships. Christ-centered friendships are about self-giving, where each person genuinely seeks the good of the other. This means being present during difficult times, offering advice rooted in faith, and celebrating each other's successes.
Finally, patience is key. Building deep friendships takes time, effort, and sometimes weathering challenges together. But through it all, keeping Christ at the center allows the friendship to grow in ways that surface-level relationships simply cannot.
In a world where many friendships are fleeting, cultivating faith-based relationships can provide a lifelong source of strength, support, and spiritual growth. Whether in a prayer group, Bible study, or just through intentional one-on-one time, investing in these friendships is an investment in your spiritual journey.
For more advice on cultivating faith-based friendships, check out Deep Friendship, Whatever Happened to Friendship.
