We believe that in order for people to be assimilated into the life of the church they need two things: a place to give (ministry) and a place to get (small groups). Our lives can be likened to a body of water. In order for that body of water to remain fresh it needs both to receive fresh water and be an outlet. The life of a Christian is a healthy life when it is being stimulated both by giving and receiving. We are persuaded that excellent ministry occurs in small group settings where there is genuine concern and an opportunity for sharing, discussion, prayer and discipleship.
Such opportunities are offered in the following groups:
1. LIFE Groups
2. Bible Studies
3. Elderberries
4. Spiritual Mothering
1. LIFE GROUPS = LIFE
L - Learning: Studies from a biblical perspective keep the focus of the group on true biblical fellowship
I - Intercession is a very important element in our LIFE groups. The members and friends of our church pray for one another as well as the church, its ministries and our community.
F - Fellowship is necessary if the unity, vision and sense of community are to be sustained in our church. People need people and LIFE groups are a way for people to establish and build strong relationships.
E - Extension is the group reaching out. The outreach may be to people in the church who seem to be on the fringes. It may be to people outside the church in ned of the kind of ministry these groups provide. To remain healthy the groups need to be outward-looking.
To join a LIFE Group please contact the leader for times and places of meetings.
LIFE GROUPS
Bumbalough Life Group - Jim & Jane Bumbalough, 935-7880
Deckard Life Group - Tom & Mindy Deckard, 855-2420
Harrington Life Group - Mark & Kari Harrington, 966-5296
Dove Life Group - Dave & Joan Frame, (765) 874-2227
Roszell Life Group - Jim & Kathy Roszell, 962-9151
Soots Life Group - Ed & Kim Soots, (765) 847-2296
Stein Life Group - Tom & Beth Ann Stein, 966-4017
2. BIBLE STUDIES
Studies for men and women are designed to provide learning in a small-group setting, along with the opportunity to invite friends from outside the church.
Monday Evening Women's Bible Study - Sharon Brant, 962-0812
Paul Higgs, 966-2704
Jon Ford and Bob Foust, 966-9556
Maureen Bradley, 935-5806
Jane Bumbalough, 935-5806
Mindy Deckard, 855-2420
Kari Harrington, 966-5296
Judy Hall, 855-2255
Debbie Higgs, 966-2704
Pat James, 966-2704
Rick and Alicia Beckman, 317-504-8273
3. ELDERBERRIES
Elderberries purpose is twofold. First, we would like to be together as one, bringing together shut-ins etc. in our church family and those that don't get out. Secondly, we would like to have an opportunity in a non threatening environment to invite neighbors and friends. We want to sing hymns, old songs, and have some sort of entertainment. This is done over lunch. Fellowship is very important and just getting to know each other.
We will be meeting the second Tuesday of each month at MCL from 11:30-1:30 p.m. Elderberries is for those around 55 and up and anyone that is handicapped who doesn't get out much. Everyone is welcome. Contact Sharon Brant with questions: 962-0812
4. SPIRITUAL MOTHERING
The Spiritual Mothers and Daughters program is designed for the purpose of developing supportive friendships between older and younger women; the seniors and the juniors either in age or in the Lord. In Titus 2:1, 3-5 the Lord places upon the older women, who are mature in their faith and consistent in their conduct, the responsibility of teaching and training the younger women to be reverent in the way they live, and to be godly wives, mothers and homemakers. Contact Ruth Williamson (935-5264) to become involved in this ministry.