On January 12, at the beginning of our 150th year, Grace celebrated the 30th anniversary of small groups at Grace Church. Jan Bradley, a long-time small group leader and one-time coordinator of all Grace’s small groups, offered the following reflection on small groups. It occurred to me that besides our 11 “official” Grace small groups with around 80 members in them, many of our ministries and a number of informal groups that gather with some connection to the Grace community function as small groups as well. As I listened to Jan speak, I reflected on how the GRACE acrostic can function as a kind of an examen for small groups– how are we doing in each of these areas? How is God present (or absent) with us in each of these ways? It can also serve as a “litmus test” if we are wondering if a gathering or a ministry is functioning as a small group. Are we Greeting? Reconciling? Adoring? Comforting? Equipping? Then yes, we are a small group!
Bishop Alan, Sarah and I are inviting all small group/ministry leaders (formal or informal!) to a gathering from 1:30-3:30 on Saturday, February 22 in the sanctuary to check in on how our groups are doing (perhaps using the acrostic as an examen!), talk about our plans for Lent, and study scripture together. Whether you are currently leading an official or unofficial small group or are thinking of starting one (even just for the season of Lent!) you are welcome. Read on for Jan’s wonderful reflection on small groups!
-Rev. Amy
PS If you are interested in joining one of Grace’s existing small groups, email Associate Pastor Sarah Christopher at [email protected].
Thirty Years of Small Groups at Grace Church
— by Jan Bradley
Small groups are an ancient practice. In the early church, there were no
“church buildings”. Groups met in one-another’s homes. They were and still are “miniature churches”, where much of the work of the church gets done.
A small group is a family. As in families, each small group is different. Members may change over the years, as some move away or have life or career changes, and others are welcomed into the family. Some members come regularly, and others drop-in when they are in town or when their schedules allow. A small group may study the Bible, or other spiritual texts, some may meditate, but all share their stories and pray for each other. Some groups do service projects together for the church and the community. But most importantly, small groups, like families, support and help each other in times of trouble, and celebrate together in times of joy. That’s really what small groups are all about.
In addition to providing comfort and support, small groups offer additional opportunities to worship God, have fellowship, and a chance to make a difference in the world. Small groups are where each and every one of the G.R.A.C.E. acrostic ministries happens.
Greeting the seeker– we always have an “open chair;” we are not a closed circle; we are ready to welcome the seeker (including the seeker in each of us)
Reconciling the lost– we accompany one another when we feel lost (not solving problems or giving answers)
Adoring the Creator– we always acknowledge God and worship God in varied ways
Comforting those in need–both in and outside of our group. Small groups are there for their members in times of need and many engage in service to others in need.
Equipping the Saints to change the world–through our sharing, learning, praying, playing, and working together we are equipped to be the change we want to see in the world.
So, if you’re in a small group, keep up the good work!
If you’re not yet in a small group, talk to someone who is in a group, and find out if that group is for you. Or, if you don’t find one to meet your needs, form your own!
No experience necessary, but there are lots of us who can assist you on your way!
Recent Comments