Women
The purpose of Women's Ministries is to glorify God by challenging women:
- to know God personally
- to grow in Christlikeness
- to discover and use spiritual gifts
- to love and serve others
- and in all we do to reflect the beauty of the Lord Jesus Christ
Small Groups
Developing and Using Small Groups
Linda Hardin, DMin.
The implementation of small groups is one factor in the growth of some churches.
Church growth experts say small groups are an important factor for growth,
whatever the church attendance. Beginning small groups requires much work, time,
prayer, and a vision.
Reasons for Small Groups
1. They provide another entry point into your church. In the past, Sunday
School, worship services, and special events served as entry points. While these
still offer opportunities, we must continue to search for ways to increase the
opportunities people have to become involved in our churches. For a variety of
reasons, some people are intimidated by walking into a crowd. They feel more
comfortable with a smaller group. Others prefer the anonymity of a large group.
2. They are very an effective evangelism tool. Small groups offer a place to
discuss daily life and to receive encouragement and support. They provide a
setting where questions are easier to ask, helping non-believers and new
believers to learn more about the Christian life-style.
3. They are an effective means to care for the people. Whatever the size of your
church, it is impossible for the pastor to provide all the care people need. We
already practice this through a variety of ministries. Additionally, some will
find it easier to talk with a church member, especially if they are new to the
church or don't know the pastor.
4. They accelerate spiritual growth within the people. In a small group of
people, usually 8-12, people are more comfortable in sharing needs and concerns.
This leads to accountability and a atmosphere that nurtures growth.
5. They sift the work of the church to the people and fulfills Ephesians 4:12.
This verse says "equipping the saints to do the work of the ministry." As
Christians, we are saints, whether or not we are comfortable with the term. The
early church demonstrated how the work of the church was accomplished by
empowering lay-leaders. Community people expect the pastor to be involved in
ministry. When the laity, however, takes this role, the impact is greater.
Dale Galloway, pastor of New Hope Community Church in Portland states "No church
with more than 50 members can be effective in pastoral care without enlisting
and enabling the lay people to do daily work of pastoral care."
