“HOW VERY GOOD AND PLEASANT IT IS WHEN WE LIVE TOGETHER IN UNITY!” PSALM 133:1

Are you looking for a place to belong? Would you like to get together with some friends to explore and study the Bible? Do you want to take your relationship with Christ on a deeper level? During the season of Advent and Christmas, we focused on the theme of the arrival and birth of the Babe in the manger who enables us to experience the joy of salvation and hope for the promise of eternal life. Now, we approach the season of Lent (this year Ash Wednesday – the first day of Lent falls on March 9) – a time of self-examination, a time to journey toward the Cross, a time to get rid of all the unwanted things that displease God and hinder our path to eternity. In order for us to enrich our spiritual lives, we are in the process of organizing small groups in our congregation beginning the first week in March. Some of you may be familiar with small groups. However, for some, it may be a new concept.

So, what is a Small Group? Usually, a small group is made up of 3 to 12 people who come together once a week (the group can decide a day and the time) to build relationships through Bible study, encouragement, accountability, guidance and prayer so that all members experience life transformation through Christ. As members of the group, we keep each member accountable to Christ and one another and we also care for each other through prayer and sharing. A small group is a safe, warm and friendly environment, where we can sincerely extend an invitation to a friend, neighbor, relative or a family member who may or may not belong to our congregation. However, together we can all grow in the knowledge of Christ and experience a unique time of fellowship with one another. Small groups are not therapeutic support groups. Small groups serve a combined role of friendship building, mutual support and discipleship. Small groups may also be called growth groups, Bible study groups, home groups, connect groups, home friendship groups, home care groups, fellowship groups, life groups, house fellowships or small Christian communities.

As preparations are being made to launch small groups in our congregation, can you make a prayerful commitment to be a part of this vital ministry? Can you host a group at your house? If you are unable to host a group, can you help lead or facilitate a group? If you wish to host and lead, that would be wonderful. However, the hosts do not have to lead the group. Periodically, I will meet with the hosts and facilitators about small group dynamics, curriculum and other details. As soon as we receive the list of host homes, we will be including that information in the bulletin.

Whether you are single, married, divorced, male, female, with or without kids, old, young or young at heart, there is a small group for ALL! What are you waiting for? Connect now with a group that meets in your area or another group that meets your needs. If you wish to help with this ministry in any way, please email me or call me ASAP. I will be glad to assist you in helping you find God’s purpose for your life through the ministry of a small group. As the Apostle Paul has said in Acts 2:44, may we devote ourselves “to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” With open hearts, open arms and open doors, let us prayerfully make a commitment to host, facilitate or participate in a small group. Thanks and praise be to God!