It says there was a problem connecting to the server

Hi there raechelle17,

Are you seeing this when the iPhone is trying to activate during setup? If yes, then the steps below can possibly help resolve this:

"Follow these steps 

1. Restart your iPhone or iPad.
2. If you're using a cellular-data connection, connect to a reliable Wi-Fi network instead.
3. If you get an error message on your iPhone or iPad that says the activation server is temporarily unavailable or cannot be reached when trying to activate, wait a few minutes, then repeat the previous steps.

If you still can't activate your iPhone or iPad, try again using your computer instead:

1. Make sure that you have the latest version of macOS or the latest version of iTunes.
2. Check that your computer has an internet connection.
3. With the cable that came with your iPhone or iPad, connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer. Locate your device on your computer.
4. Wait while your computer detects and activates your iPhone or iPad: 

• If an alert appears that says "Set up as New" or "Restore from Backup," it means your iPhone or iPad is activated.
• If you get an error message on your computer that says that the SIM card isn't compatible or is invalid, contact your carrier.
• If you get an error message that says the "activation information was invalid" or "activation information could not be obtained from the device," use recovery mode to restore your iPhone or iPad.

If you still can't activate your iPhone or iPad, contact Apple Support."

Those steps are from this article: If you can't activate your iPhone or iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular)

Take care.