Everywhere you turn, you hear about rising gas prices, the cost of eggs and how badly you wish you had bought that property in Lawrenceville decades ago, because real estate prices are now through the roof.
But what if we focused instead on the financial wins right around the corner? What if, rather than griping about shrinkflation, we aimed our energy toward our goals and used the resources we already have to face a changing economy?
When I first started taking advantage of these freebies, I felt like a bit of a baddie. I would think to myself, “Wait, do they know I am Catholic, that I will probably never worship here and that I am totally just exploiting their resources?” They did not care. They simply wanted to do something for the community. Lo and behold, I was wrong about never worshipping there: I have now attended Discovery for a year. I go for the jams and Jesus.
Without further ado, here is how Discovery would love to see you “exploit its resources.” Check the events page on its website to make sure the facilities are open on the day you would like to visit, and you are good to go.
- Free indoor play space. That is right. It is equipped with slides, climbing elements and spinny thingies (that is an official industry term). Discovery has a completely free indoor play space where you can let your kiddos run free – with your supervision, of course. There are no greasy fry walls or ketchup stains like you might experience at a fast-food play area, which is awesome in its own way. In fact, food is not permitted in the Discovery play area, giving you one more reason to breathe easy while you sit and watch your kiddos play.
- Free outdoor mini-golf course. Peace starts coursing through you as soon as you step onto the course and hear the running-water features. Grab the putters and golf balls available on-site, and you have a whole day of free family fun if you want it.
- Free coffee. When you visit during a service or another gathering where coffee is offered, you can help yourself to free coffee in the lobby. Check Discovery’s website to see whether any small-group meetups interest you, then invite a friend. Coffee is also served during services on Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. and Sundays at 9 and 11 a.m. If you are more of a coffee connoisseur, Discovery has you covered. Its coffee shop is open during services, where you can purchase a cappuccino, Americano, latte – you name it – and maybe even get yourself a doughnut.
- Free doughnuts on your first visit. Speaking of doughnuts, if you join Discovery for a service, you and your family will receive a gift certificate on your first visit for free doughnuts at the coffee shop in the lobby, along with a welcome packet. There is no pressure to return; they would simply love to meet you. And do not worry: No one will announce your entrance or try to introduce you to everyone in the lobby. You can stop by the Start Here desk, grab your welcome packet and doughnuts, and join the service as anonymously as you would like.
- Free childcare. Childcare is available during every service, many small-group meetups and often at events such as couples retreats and women’s summits. Older children receive religious education during their stay, so it is nourishment and not just entertainment. Speaking of nourishment, snacks are often included for the kids, too.
Bonus freebies. Many small groups are free to join if you want fellowship but are not ready for full church services. Community members also rent Discovery’s facilities, typically for a small hourly fee, and host activities that may be free or low-cost, including workout classes, networking events and casual meetups. Check the church’s website for upcoming events that might be a good fit for you.
Five-dollar dinners. This one is not free, but it is about as close as you will get when treating your family to dinner. Before Thursday evening services, dinner is available beginning at 5:45 p.m. for as little as $5 per person, with a maximum of $20 per family. Discovery families such as mine – there are nine of us – really get a bang for their buck. A different local restaurant provides the meal each week, with allergen-friendly options available. You can view the lineup on Discovery’s website.
The Thursday service is intended in part for people whose work, athletics or travel schedules make it difficult to attend on Sunday.
Lunch or dinner with church leaders. If you want to learn more about Discovery Christian
“We’re just regular members of the community. We try to knock down whatever’s standing in the way of somebody walking through the door and make it as easy as we can,” said Pastor Matt Mahaffey, Discovery Church’s lead pastor. “You’re welcome any time. Just come check us out.”
Editor’s note: Marta Sauret Greca attends Discovery Church. Programs, prices and schedules are subject to change; readers should confirm current details with the church before visiting.
About the author: Marta Sauret Greca is the author of The Minimalist Method, Course Corrected, Powerful Synergy and Completely Wealthy. Her lifestyle columns for The 228 Times focus on living more simply, enjoying life fully and becoming more financially sound while trusting in your divine path.