Here's how some participants describe their community groups:
Our format allows for a closer relationship than we can achieve in a church setting....Recently I asked the group why they come to community group. Some responses were: "we need family support and the community group is that family."
"I need a closer connection with others than is possible during a 50-minute Bible Study time." -- Howard Davis
Our community group has a service format. We have some kind of project a couple of Saturdays each month. We've done projects as varied as moving a huge pile of dirt, cleaning gutters, small maintenance jobs, and painting. We didn't want to just eat and meet -- we wanted to get out and do things for others. -- John & Terri Shipe
I was hesitant to join a community group at first because I wasn't so sure that I wanted to open up to a bunch of folks that I didn't know so well. However, my attitude quickly changed. It became apparent why Jesus' early followers met in homes and were not in a hurry to rush out and build church buildings. The ability to seek the support of fellow Christians adds a dimension to church that will not be found in any other format. Now it is hard for me to see myselfl belonging to a church that doesn't have community groups. -- Steve Teague
We have several age ranges represented. We have couples, never-marrieds, widows and divorced people and the blend is rewarding to all of us. Everyone shares their heart, we enjoy a meal together, we laugh a lot.....we have all become close and genuinely enjoy one another's company. -- Shirley Ezelle
If you would like to get connected to a community group, contact Beverly Bale at 224-3003 or via e-mail.
Members: Check out available community groups.