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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:
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Reflect Jesus Christ’s love
through study, mutual support, joint service, and
fellowship, |
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Deepen
the spirituality of each participant,
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Strengthen community within the
group. |
The guidelines for the Small Group Ministry of First
Presbyterian Church are as follows:
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The group will meet from September
to May. They will meet every other week comprising two
six-week sessions.
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Leaders will choose curriculum
with recommendations from the committee.
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Leader training will focus on
equipping the leaders in the skills and techniques of
leading a group.
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There will be combined Small Group
ministry get-togethers involving all of the groups at the
beginning and end of the ministry year.
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At the end of each ministry year
there will be a reenlistment opportunity.
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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.
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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. |
