We
meet together in homes, at Church or where convenient as small
groups to enjoy fellowship and to earn from God's word together. In the
past small groups were called bible study or home groups, but the role
of the small group is not limited to the home or simply bible study.
In
a move that echos the life in the early church, we aim to grow
the small group into the first place in the Church were people get
discipled and get pastoral care. Changes in the organisation of the
small groups and the training of the leaders is aimed to help this
growth take place. However, we recognise the need of those who do not
want or can't be a small group member. If you are not already part of a
small group we would encourage you to join a group and would love to
hear from you.
Most
groups have about 8-10 members and meet most weeks for about 2
hours either during the day or in the evening. An important part of the
small group is refreshments, catching up on the weeks news and the art
of good fellowship. Some evenings or on a special occasion it may
simply be a meal in someone's house, a barbecue in the garden or meal
at the local pub.
What
is a small group and why are they so important?
Jesus
had his own small group - the 12 disciples. He cared for them
and treated them as family. In a society where there are so
many broken
homes and where people do not feel a sense of community -
small groups
offer an excellent place for people to get together to eat, drink,
share, encourage, learn, and have fun.
A
small group, cell group or home group, it doesn't matter what you
call it, is the most fundamental unit within the church community. It
provides a secure, intimate place where you can explore your
gifts and
walk of faith. In these small groups people are free
to voice their
personal needs and find the help and support that they
need. Another
key element of belonging to a group is to simply spend time with each
other, having fun and especially eating together - this all builds
relationships and a sense of belonging.
