First, it creates opportunities to connect.
Growth Groups provide a regular church wide means to connect with one another, and for our guests to connect with us outside of Sunday morning worship. Growth Groups will afford a chance to forge new friendships, get to know new folks, or folks that are new to us.
It will further strengthen our bonds with one another, while providing an inroad for newcomers to enter our community in a safe and fun setting. After all, such solidarity with other believers is part of God’s plan for discipleship (Acts 2:41-42)
Second, it creates a way to grow as disciples.
At Saint Barnabas, we say we are “disciples making disciples of Jesus Christ.” Yet, what does it mean to be a disciple? How can we grow as disciples? Growth Groups aim at answering those questions, by providing an intentional time to grow in the character of Jesus as we follow Him.
We will begin by looking at God as Jesus did, by walking with Jesus in the lessons, the teachings, the scriptures that He taught. In our series together, both on Sunday mornings in the sermons, and in our Growth Groups during the week, we will dive into these topics.
Third, it further develops a pattern to be with the Lord and fellow Christians.
We’ve all been there. We resolve to do a study, spend more time in prayer, have more godly interactions, and then life happens. Sometimes we need a pattern, a day and time, and the motivation of others to make our best intentions reality.
Growth Groups will assist toward that end as we meet during the course of a semester, week after week, then taking a break during the holidays to recoup. Such patterns create a routine for us to grow, rest, then grow again as we set aside a time to grow in the character of Jesus alongside other believers.
You will not want to miss out on this opportunity! Keep an eye on this space as sign ups will come soon, and you can select the best day and time offered to meet your schedule and needs (childcare, etc.). I am so excited about this and look forward to speaking with you on any questions or clarifications that may arise.