Small Groups

 Small Group Ministry at First Presbyterian Church 

Why Small Group Ministry?  As a large and diverse congregation, First Presbyterian Church needs ways for individuals to connect with one another beyond the Sunday morning worship and church school hours.  Various small groups that gather for study, support, service, and fellowship help to connect individuals on a more personal level, providing the means of getting to know one another better. Connections with the larger congregation also are built up through relationships formed in a small group setting.  Members of small groups have an opportunity to grow spiritually and to participate in the ministry of the church on a more personal level and one that may feel more comfortable for newer and more introverted members.

The purpose and function of small groups are reflected in the following mission statement:

The mission of small group ministry at First Presbyterian Church consists of an intentional gathering of 5-12 people who covenant to:

              Reflect Jesus Christ’s love through study, mutual support, joint service, and fellowship,

              Deepen the spirituality of each participant,

              Strengthen community within the group.

The guidelines for the Small Group Ministry of First Presbyterian Church are as follows: 

              The group will meet from September to May.

              They will meet every other week comprising two six-week sessions.

              Leaders will choose curriculum with recommendations from the committee. 

              Leader training will focus on equipping the leaders in the skills and techniques of leading a group. 

              There will be combined Small Group ministry get-togethers involving all of the groups at the beginning and end of the ministry year. 

              At the end of each ministry year there will be a reenlistment opportunity. 

              There will be an open chair policy where guests are welcome in each group..

The Small Group Committee of Session oversees and supports First Presbyterian Church’s Small Group Ministry.  The Small Group committee is responsible for recruitment of new leaders and group members.  This includes publicity and interpretation to the congregation.  The committee is also responsible for planning and running the large group events at the beginning and end of each year. 

FPC staff supports the training of group leaders and assists in launching new groups and supervising the group leaders.  This includes monthly contact, resource/curriculum advisement and problem solving. 

For more information on Small Group Ministry at First Presbyterian Church, contact the church office at (717) 843-8041.