Small Group Vision Statement
The Mission of our church is: To Grow
Disciples for Jesus Christ.
We believe that the best way to grow disciples is
in Christian community.
We believe in small groups because they:
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Are biblical
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Are a place where people can develop their relationships with God
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Facilitate opportunities for prayer
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Allow opportunity for in depth bible study
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Give every individual a place to be known and cared for
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Help people to develop meaningful relationships
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Create an avenue for accountability
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Foster an environment for growing Christian disciples
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Provide opportunities for service within, and outside the group
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Allow for interaction so people can see and share what God is doing
in their lives and the lives of others
Small Group Principles
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The pastor can not minister individually to every member
of the church. Small groups are the place where people connect with
each other to minister to others, and be ministered to themselves.
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Perhaps the greatest need in our society is for people to
be in meaningful, caring, honest, relationships. Small groups provide a
place for honest and safe, sharing, support and communication. Small
group members will pray for one another. Small group members will honor
the thoughts, ideas, and emotions of one another. In order to
facilitate this place of honesty and safety, it will be understood that
what is said within a group, will stay within the group.
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Christian Disciples learn best in an atmosphere of love
and trust. Small groups provide that atmosphere. It is in small groups
that growing disciples are free to ask any questions (there are no
stupid questions), and explore the answers in the safety of a loving
community.
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Christian Disciples grow best when there are people around
them who take a genuine interest in their lives. Small group members
take a genuine interest in each other. This means they try to model as
best they can the unconditional love and acceptance of Christ. Within
this love there may be times when individuals are challenged to take the
next step in their faith, knowing that as they do they are surrounded by
people who are cheering for them, praying for them, and prepared to help
them through every step they take.
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Evangelism is best done through the example of our lives.
Small groups are a welcoming place to invite friends and anyone who may
be seeking the meaningful, loving relationships a group can provide.
Through these relationships we are given the opportunity to introduce
others to Christ. Group meetings will all include an open chair as a
constant reminder that there are others who need the love of Christ.
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