Want to grow in faith? Think small!
Small groups, that is.
Small groups help us fill two simple needs in our design: we need God and we need each other—and we need both more than just on Sunday mornings!
The essence of small groups can be found in the beginnings of Methodism itself, when “classes,” groups of about twelve, would meet weekly for prayer, Bible study, and mutual encouragement.
In fact, Jesus founded the ultimate small group: using Scripture and prayer as His guide, He shared stories and lessons, listened to his group, attended to their needs, and welcomed newcomers. And together, they grew in faith and helped others. Can there be any better inspiration?
We have a variety of short-term and continuing small groups. Prayerfully consider joining us as we grow in faith!
If you're interested in being a part of one of our groups, have an idea for a group, or would even like to lead one!—please contact me for more information.
Jeff Blackwell
Director of Community Building and Programming Ministries
Continuing Groups
Groups for Women
please click here.
Mixed Groups
Need-le Bees
Even if you’ve never made anything, you can still make a difference! Seamstress Diane Olin White leads devotions and sewing and crafting projects that help UMCOR and other mission-minded groups. All skill levels (including novice!) are welcome.
If interested, please contact Diane Olin White.
| Day |
Time |
Frequency |
Location |
| Wednesday |
6:30 p.m. |
3rd Wed. of each month |
Grace Church Lobby or Youth Room |
Pastor's Bible Study
Pastor Anne leads this weekly discussion of the next Sunday’s sermon topic. All are welcome—bring your Bible and join us!
| Day |
Time |
Frequency |
Location |
| Monday |
1:30 p.m. |
weekly |
Grace Church Parlor |
Groups for Men
Healthy Start
We're launching a new service and fellowship men’s group – Beginning Saturday, September 10th, this group will gather once a month for a breakfast and some sort of hands-on outreach project which will contribute to the health of our community. Our first project: is a joint effort with Urban Promise. Breakfast at 8 am. Project: 9am to 2pm.
| Day |
Time |
Frequency |
Location |
| Saturday |
8:00 a.m. |
2nd Saturday of each month |
location varies |
Short-Term Groups
Jesus and the Kingdom of God
This video series features eminent biblical and Jesus scholars John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg who discuss various aspects of the ministry of Jesus against the background of different biblical locations. Each of the 12 weekly meetings will last about 90 minutes and consist of the video presentation followed by a group discussion. Reading material for the following week will be also distributed. The group will be lead by John & Janet Rushmere and will begin on Monday, September 19th.
| Day |
Time |
Frequency |
Location |
| Monday |
7 p.m. |
weekly (12 weeks) |
Johns Room |
Why Jesus?
Beginning Wednesday, January 18th, Pastor Anne continues this study by Bishop William H. Willimon for seven weeks , telling stories other people have told about Jesus, primarily from the people who first met him. Working mostly from the Gospels, his goal is not to reproduce a history of Jesus, but rather to give a testimony to Jesus..
This small group will look at Jesus: week 1 – as magician; week 2 – as home wrecker; week 3 – as savior; week 4 – as sovereign; week 5 – as lover; week 6 - as delegator; week 7 - as body
| Day |
Time |
Frequency |
Location |
| Wednesday |
7 p.m. |
weekly for 7 weeks |
Pastor Anne's home |
REEL Life
The Reel Life small group returns for a seven week study of faith in film. Each week, a DVD will be distributed to group members. Prior to the group meeting, we each watch the DVD at our convenience. Then we discuss the movie together on Tuesdays, study how the film makers share their witness of God’s word in their work. and examine how the messages in these movies can inform and strengthen our own faith. Beginning January 17th. Jeff Blackwell leads.
| Day |
Time |
Frequency |
Location |
| Tuesday |
7 p.m. |
weekly for 7 weeks |
Grace Parlor |