Why Small Groups?

In his profound book, Transforming Church, church researcher and consultant Kevin Ford states:

"The quality of the community is the quintessential test of health of a church."

"We were made to be creative in the context of life in community. Relationships inspire us to create, and creativity happens best in the context of relationships.......A body is a set of mysterious, inter-connected, and dynamic relationships that create and sustain life."

Simply put, small groups are a catalyst for community in the life of a church!  Sharing in group life shapes us into people who 'make room' for others and helps others feel that they BELONG.

RELIVING THE PASSION
Small Groups
for
Winter-Spring 2010

No story has more significance than this: the death and resurrection of Jesus. But somehow the oft-repeated tale of Christ's Passion can become too familiar, too formalized, for us to experience its incredible significance, immediacy and power.

The meditations in Reliving the Passion, which received a Gold Medallion Award, follow the story as given in the Gospel of Mark.  The 40 brief, daily readings (for the season of Lent) are more than a recounting of events. They are an imaginary reenactment, leading readers to re-experience the Passion or perhaps see it fully  for the very first time. "The story gets personal for every reader," writes the author, Walter Wangerin, "for this is indeed our story, the story whereby we personally have been saved from such a death as Jesus died."

Wangerin is a great storyteller and profound thinker. His little book will provide some energized discussion for our winter-spring small groups.  Along with good discussion, groups provide a place to gain new friendships and encouragement for your week. 

When does it start?
This 7-8 week group experience begins the week of February 15-21 and ends in mid-April (groups may end different weeks). There will be a break at Easter.

How do I choose a group?
To help you fit this into your busy life, we have groups meeting throughout the week. Just choose a group that fits a day & time that works for you!  We also have a couple of 'specialty' groups this time...one for young couples (late 20s-30s) and a men-only group.

How do I sign up?
EASY!!  Look for the  Reliving the Passion sign-up table on Sundays.  Or, you can go to www.FirstB.org click on the Reliving the Passion link.
If you're reading this online, click here!!

What if I have to miss a week or two or three?
We still want you involved! Go ahead and join a group!

I can’t afford a babysitter every week!
We want families involved! To help make this possible, we have a couple of groups that will meet at the church on Wednesday evenings (6:45-8:00pm) at the same time children and middle school programs are taking place.Or, join the Dolby's group on Sunday evenings. On the week's you don't have a sitter, you can bring your children. Group members may take turns watching the children.
Other ideas!! If you are married with kids, consider joining separate groups. There are benefits to participating in different groups and discussing your experience back at home. OR...talk with another couple about exchanging babysitting duties. Get creative!!!

Questions?
Best thing to do is send an email with your question(s) to Pastor Steve
or contact the church office.