After much careful
prayer, thought and consideration a small group strategy for the church is
being developed. The key points listed below identify the ideas and aspirations
for this initiative within the church at Woodmancote.
Key points:
1. 'Small groups' mean groups of perhaps 8-12 people meeting at planned regular intervals with a given identity and purpose.
2. An effective small groups ministry is one which both recognises and seeks to accommodate the many needs and levels of maturity of people who are involved in the groups.
3. Small groups are not to be seen simply as an optional 'add-on' but as an integral part of the life work and ministry of the church.
4. Following on from 3, the work and ministry within small groups should not be seen as developing separately from any other part of the work of the church but be recognised as contributing to the overall ministry aims and direction of the church.
5. It is recognised that a person's spiritual growth is generally a linear progress. All Christians stand somewhere 'on the line' and it will be part of the overall ministry of the church to engender a desire in all members to grow in their knowledge and experience of God.
Small groups are to further the work of the church in:
Introducing people to Christ.
Building an understanding and experience of discipleship.
Encouraging and enabling all Christians in:
a. Bible Study
b. Prayer
c. Relationship
d. Worship
e. Mission - being personally more effective in sharing their faith, providing a relational introduction for non-Christians to other church outreach events and developing a better understanding of world mission.