WHY ARE FELLOWSHIP GROUPS IMPORTANT?

We believe in sharing the ministry, not in keeping it for a handful of paid clergy. In fact, we believe the clergy should be equipping people to do the work of ministry. We know of no better way to do that than through small group ministry.

Fellowship groups offer a caring atmosphere. It is difficult for people to show the love of Christ if they only meet on Sunday mornings or for committee meetings. Caring for each other is one of the most important commends God gives.

Fellowship groups also offer the best atmosphere for personal growth. There is no better place in the church for people to develop their gifts, knowledge, leadership, and Christian character than in a small group.

OUR VISION FOR FELLOWSHIP GROUPS We envision nine characteristics for Fellowship groups.
1.	A Close Family: As the Body of Christ we should care for each other.
2.	Unlimited Opportunities for Meaningful Service: We want to equip people to do ministry for which they are gifted.
3.	Relating God's Word to Daily Life: Our lives are centered on the Word of God, not mere topics or feelings.
4.	Sharing Personal Spiritual Challenges: Encourage each other with stories of spiritual growth and how God is working to change us? If you know, share it!
5.	Effective One-to-One Ministry: Address specific needs with the small group, formally or informally. Tailor-make ministry for individual needs.
6.	Non-threatening Friendship Evangelism: We can reach out to other people in a genuine and authentic way. Plan how to grow! Share a good thing!
7.	Discipleship and Encouragement: We plan for personal growth and encouragement.
8.	Development of Strong Leadership: Future leaders of small groups come from small groups; and we are committed to ongoing training.
9.	Worshipful Responses: We don't want to begin and end with ourselves. Our goal is to give God the glory, to know him and center our lives around him.

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED IN A FELLOWSHIP GROUP?
Start Looking
	Many of our groups are open to newcomers visiting and investigating to see if there is a fit. Fellowship groups are composed of very diverse people; some groups are similar in their life situation.
Visit the Welcome Center
	The Welcome Center is located in the lobby of the church building. There you will fine a list of all the fellowship groups and a contact phone number.
Know anyone in a fellowship group?
	Feel free to be bold and call them or talk to them about their fellowship group. They know what’s going on. You are more likely to be comfortable in a group with people you already know and enjoy.
You choose!
	Fellowship groups are best when they are offered in a "free market.” You should be free to choose and to associate with the group that meets your needs. For that reason, we offer a variety of groups that meet at a variety of times.

Fellowship Group Information files (PDF files)
Vision for fellowship groups (38k)
Manual for Fellowship Group Leaders (481k)

Click here for FellowshipGroup Lisitngs

Support Groups

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Divorce Care

Men's Ministry

Men's Fraternity (Wednesday evening and Thursday morning Men's Ministry)

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Call church office for more information on the next class session.

Something new coming for our small groups.

Feb -ch 2005