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Small groups are a real life line. They are safe and friendly places where we can really encourage and lead each other into deeper relationship with Jesus. In our fast moving and hectic lives having a context where we can be real, receive prayer and hear from God is essential.
Small Groups are central to the vision of the church for several reasons. They are natural places for people to build frienships and community. They create accountablity and offer personal discipleship. They extend the ministry of the church into the homes and relationships of its members.
There isn't any one correct model of small group, in fact part of their beauty is in the different needs they meet. The traditional model is an evening home group, which caters for people working traditional hours. Mum's small groups often meet in coffee shops or park cafes during the morning. Sports small groups meet at the gym and then read the Bible together in the cafe at the end.
The only things that are essential to small groups are: being Jesus centred, development of friendships and honesty, building up the church, openness to prayer and bible teaching. Each group should be led by either one or two designated leaders depending on the group size. There is a aim that as of autumn 2008, the leaders of small groups will attend a Core Leaders Meeting each term - for input, training and leadership development.
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Will Van Der Hart, 14/02/2008 |
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