The membership of the church is always changing.  Some of us are getting older (and wiser!).  Children are born.  New members are welcomed into the congregation.  Young people head off to university or other pursuits.  There are deaths.  At the same time, the people provide a continuity.  You can make new friends here, or reconnect with old friends.  And, given that this church is in a small village, be careful what you say, because lots of people are related.