Small Group Ministry
Small Group Ministry is designed to build relationships by sharing in meaningful ways with one another. The groups foster connection and caring and provide an opportunity for spiritual development and service. Small Group Ministry is open to anyone who wishes to participate and who can honor the time commitment. The groups are facilitated by church members who are supported by our Membership Coordinator, Lisa Todd.
Sign Up for a Small Group - Registration Form
Download the inspirational Small Group Ministry sermon from September 14, 2008 to hear our leaders share how they have been transformed by connecting with the members of their small groups. Download Audio (mp3 - file size 23.8mb).
Format
The groups include time for fellowship, group check-in and sharing, quiet meditation and a discussion. The initial topics highlight the primary values expressed in our church covenant.
Our covenant calls us to behave in certain ways. How do we become more authentic, generous, honest, faithful, loving, spiritually awake, justice seeking , community building people?
Time Commitment
Regular attendance is necessary to participate. Small groups will meet weekly for eight weeks, for two hours each week. Using a discussion guide, these “starter” groups will explore the values in our covenant and how to apply those ideals to our lives. After the eight weeks, each member can choose to continue with the same group or enter a different group that better fits their schedule and needs or simply step out of small group ministry.
Groups that commit to continuing will meet once or twice a month for another six to nine months, remaining open to new members over the course of the year. Groups that continue will agree upon the curriculum or discussion topics that speak to the needs of their members.
Expectations
Each member will share responsibility for the group (food, readings, reminder calls, transportation) so as to share accountability for the success of the group. Members will be respectful of one another and listen with care to others. Groups will encourage their members to share their gifts and as a group they will choose a service project that benefits the larger church community. It is through our service that we live out the values in our covenant.
Schedule
Small groups will start in September, January and April for their initial eight weeks. The number of groups will be determined by interest and leadership availability.
2U Covenant
(focus of the 8 week groups)
We covenant to build a community that challenges us to grow and empowers us to honor the truth within ourselves.
We will be generous with our gifts and honest in our communication, holding faithful to a love that embraces both diversity and conflict.
Called by our living tradition, we will nurture spirituality within a vision of the eternal, living out our inner convictions through struggles for justice and acts of compassion.
Small Group Ministry Frequently Asked Questions
Contact:
Lisa Todd
Membership Coordinator
773-549-0260 Ext. 11