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.
1. LIFE GROUPS
Deckard Life Group - Tom & Mindy Deckard
1. A five-session study by Max Lucado and Randy Frazee, called "Making Room for Neighbors: Strengthen Relationships, Cultivate Community".
If you are feeling the Lord nudging you to reach out to others around you, whether in your neighborhood, or in the community among people that need to connect, or even in your own church, you will benefit from this study. We'll fellowship together and get to know each other, as well as realize ways we can reach out to those God has placed in our lives and neighborhoods.
Sun. Oct. 2: meet following Sunday morning activities, for lunch, at the Deckard's home: 4597 Stevens Road, Centerville (approx. 12:45 - 2:30)
Location may be subject to change on one of the later meetings.
Koditek-Ford Life Group - Frank and Barb Koditek, Jon and Judy Ford
1. The study is entitled “Doing the Right Thing” by Chuck Colson. This is a six part exploration of Ethics; ethics and culture and how to approach from a Biblical perspective.
2. Meets after Sunday School for a light lunch and discussion. We will plan to meet every 2 weeks through the school year. Start date is September 25th.
3. Meeting in the homes of Life Group members.
4. Any questions please email or call Frank Koditek.
Harrington Life Group - Mark & Kari Harrington
1. The study will focus on marriage and family issues.
2. Meeting the first and third Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m.
3. Meeting at their home (12 Parkway Ln.)
4. Any questions please email or call Mark Harrington.
Wooldridge Life Group - Carl & Connie Wooldridge
1. Study "The Prodigal God" by Tim Keller
2. Meeting Sunday evenings from 7:00-8:30 p.m., starting September 25.
3. Meeting at their home (1831 South B Street).
4. There are 6 sessions in this study of "Jesus' best-known - and least understood parable: The Parable of the Prodigal Son." In this course, Tim Keller presents "the radical idea that the gospel is neither religion nor irreligion, neither morality nor immorality, but something else entirely." The vision for Keller's church, Redeemer Presbyterian in New York City, is based on the life-changing insights he shares in this series.
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.
Tuesday Evening Women's Bible Study - meets at 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday Noon Women's Bible Study - will meet again in January 2012
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 third Wednesday 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.
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 to become involved in this ministry.