What are Small Groups?These are groups of around 8 - 12 people of varied backgrounds
and interests, ages and abilities, meeting weekly for one to two hours. These groups meet
at different locations and different times throughout the week. Members of these groups
can testify to the tremendous benefits of personal friendships, and that fellowship that
is established through these small groups. New members to our congregation are always
welcome to join a group.
These small groups are not ends in themselves.
They are not mini-churches, but they are meetings to:
a) to help us to grow in spiritual maturity as we study God's
Word the Bible.
b) help us, in practical ways, to cope with every day life.
c) provide the means and opportunities of developing deeper
relationships with others and with God.
d) help us show the love of God, in action, to the world around
us.
Because confidentiality is important, trust, loyalty and a deep
commitment to others develops. Here the deeper personal needs and questions of faith can
be shared and discussed without hurry and in the intimacy and trust of a small group. The
groups meet in private homes and are led by trained leaders who are mature Christians who
have a loving concern for others.
Why do we need small groups?
People need people! People need God! We need love and
companionship and communication. Sometimes in this frantic world it is hard to find the
love and support that we need - or can give.
We can meet on Sunday and visit our friends any time we like.
True. But, the larger gathering does not allow the time to develop strong relationships
with a small group of others. Jesus commands us "to love one another" and
"care for one another". It is harder to love someone if you don't know them. The
small groups, with their regular weekly commitment, and homely informal surroundings,
provide the opportunity for deeper, closer friendships.
Small groups are not a modern invention.
Jesus had twelve disciples - a group for fellowship, learning
and ministry. The early Christian church knew the value of meeting in small home groups
for prayer, teaching and fellowship (Acts 2: 46, 5:42, 12: 1 - 17); Colossians 4: 15).
Hebrews 10: 24 - 25 could well be the motto of our small groups:
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love
and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,
but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
What happens in small groups?
In typical small group, you will find the members catching up
with each other's new when they first arrive. Then, after the leader opens in prayer,
there will be a time of studying God's Word, where in the midst of interacting with God's
Word, there will opportunities for sharing practical advice on how to face and cope with
life's issues. There is always a cup of tea or coffee and informal discussion.
Who can belong?
- People who are looking for the opportunity to build firm
caring relationships.
- People who desire to use their gifts.
- People who want to grow spiritually.
- People who are searching for God.
