CC SMALL GROUPS

The church is a community of people….not a thing or a place but a living, breathing, group of people connected to their God and to each other. At Hephatha, we believe that small communities of believers are some of the best places to get connected to Jesus and other believers.
Community Connections small groups are places where people get together to read and study God’s word, talk about how it applies to their lives, and pray for each other.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS SMALL GROUPS FOR WINTER-SPRING OF 2010

The Groups |

A Message From Pastor Andrews |

Mission Statement |

FAQ

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THE BLESSINGS OF COMMUNITY - A Message From Pastor Arthur

Even a preliminary study of the Bible shows that true Christian community offers blessings. For the sake of brevity, I will share just four blessings:

·   We get strength for life’s storms;
·   We receive wisdom for making decisions;
·   We experience accountability, which is vital to spiritual growth;
·   We find acceptance that helps us repair our wounds;

First of all, in a Christian community we experience strength when we face major challenges in our lives in a small group. For instance, King Solomon wrote: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: 10 If one falls down, his friend can help him up But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Each individual can help carry a load too heavy to bear alone. Jesus told his disciples, “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33). In my own life, I have experienced how the body of Christ can extend help in times of hurt. Also, bear one another’s burdens.

Secondly, small groups also provide wisdom when we face tough choices. As Proverbs 15:22 explains, “Plains fail for a lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.” In this season of corporate downsizing, you know people who lost their jobs. Or, perhaps you’ve had parenting trouble—or you know someone dealing with difficult children. Can you see how a CC small group can help you sort through the complex choices of dealing with your finances or even your family?

Thirdly, we need friends that hold us accountable and offer Christian acceptance while we make positive Christ-centered changes in our lives. Friendships can offer unique opportunities for spiritual growth. If you hear something from the Bible or a sermon and then open up to a trusted Christian friend that authentic community can bring long-term change in your life. In Proverbs 27:17, we read: “As iron sharpens iron, a friend sharpens a friend” (NLT).

And lastly, when we are going through change we need acceptance and care that is offered in a small group. More than any other institution, the church is uniquely suited to offer this acceptance we need in small groups. Though many people have become resigned to isolation, no longer expecting to find true community, the church can offer friendship. It is the only institution given this mandate from Jesus: My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends (John 15:12-13).

The church is a key place where most people, whether introvert or extrovert, have a reasonable promise of finding healthy and accepting relationships. Small groups are a place where you can experience God’s strength, receive God’s wisdom, experience healthy accountability, and a God-empowered acceptance. Would you like to experience the blessings of a small group? If so, seriously consider our CC small group ministry opportunities.

Pastor Arthur Andrews

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CC Small Group Mission Statement
To connect people relationally in CC small groups for the purpose of growing in Christ-likeness, loving each other, and contributing to the work of the church, in order to glorify God and make disciples of all nations.

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FAQs

What is a CC small group?
A gathering of 6 – 14 people committed to meet on a regular basis for fellowship, mutual care, study, prayer, and service. Mature and proven leaders lead group discussions. There are groups available for couples, singles, men and women, and people at virtually every life stage.

How important are CC small groups?
At Hephatha, we believe that Community Groups are essential to church life and to our growth as authentic followers of Jesus Christ. In short, Community Connections small groups provide a place where we can be real with others, study God’s Word, and experience true Christian relationships.

What will we study?
The studies are based on what has been decided by the group. Some study a book of the Bible, a topical study, a video series relating to special interest (e.g. parenting or marriage) or studies pertaining to the previous Sunday sermon.

What if I don't connect with other people in the group or my schedule changes?
You are always welcome to try another group to find one that fits your schedule and life stage.