Small Groups
Welcome to the first S in our MESS, Small Groups. There are several different types of small groups you can be involved in, each with a little different angle and purpose. All are designed to "Connect People and Elevate Lives". Some are for specific number of weeks while others meet once a week, once a month or at some other periodic basis. This is one of our primary ways for people to connect with others in truly caring and meaningful relationships. Check out the various types of Small Groups. There is one for you.
Sunday Education Hour
Each Sunday at 9:00 AM our Education Hour takes place featuring topical classes, age specific classes, Discipleship Classes and much more. Sunday School for children ages 0 - 17 with age specific curriculum, activities and classrooms. Each Sunday School class is a small group by itself. Also, taught in a small group environment are our Adult Bible Fellowship classes. These classes meet during the Sunday Education Hour and are all uniquely structured classes. These "ABF" classes are either set-up to focus on age or station of life. ABF's begin at age 18. Many of the classes are topical classes focused on a particular topic. During Sunday School and ABF hour classes each facilitator encourages group discussion on the current topic or study. Education Hour is a great way for you to get connected and elevate your life.
Discipleship Groups
These meet for a 7 week period. There is a set of 5 courses, beginning with First Things First. Each leads a small number of people on a pathway of Discipleship through a study of the beatitudes. These are a bit demanding and require a commitment from each person involved. There is a small fee for each course and daily home study required. While commitment is necessary, these courses help the Believer develop Godliness in Character and an understanding of their own gifts and talents. The results are worth the effort.
First Things First
This is a foundational course based on 2nd Peter 1:5-7:
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; [6] and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; [7] and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. [8] For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. NIV
In this 28 lesson booklet, you will discuss with other Believers the basics of faith. While First Things First was originally designed for new Christians, it has come to serve as a faith solidifying study for many who were never "nurtured" in faith. In actuality, we prefer everyone start right here. If you have been serving the Lord for a long time, you would be an invaluable asset to this class and your small group, plus, it might surprise you how much you learn yourself.
Care Cells
These Small Groups meet in various locations, but primarily in homes. CareCells are primary to us. These groups study the Bible. They all read a couple verses each day, write down what the verses mean to them and come to their weekly meeting ready to discuss that week's scriptures. There is food, lots of fellowship and times of supportive prayer.
Interest Groups
These Small Groups meet periodically around a common interest, hobby or activity. While time is spent doing the particular interest, time is always taken for prayer and devotions. These groups are a great way to "Connect" with other Christians with a same interest as you. These groups are just beginning and will increase in number with time. For now there are three: Scrap Booking; Mountain Biking; Outdoor Fellowship (Hunting and Fishing).
