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Small Groups
We love our all-together times at our Sunday Celebrations and these remain our first priority for fellowship, encouragement and envisioning, but meeting up midweek in small groups is also an essential part of church family life. They offer a smaller context where we can build meaningful relationships, learn together, support one another and have fun (and usually lots of food) along the way.
Here are some of the small groups which take place in church life. Many of these are seasonal and run at various times as appropriate. We are always looking for new groups and group leaders.
Genesis
Genesis is for anyone who wants to find out more about the Christian faith and the church. It is very informal and helps those who have little or no experience of God and church life to find out more through open discussion. The group offers a great opportunity to make friends and get to know folk from the church, and enjoy a meal together.
Discovery
Discovery is a continuation of Genesis for those who are keen to know more. The group meets on Wednesdays during school term time, enjoys a meal together and then gets down to a study session designed to help people grow in faith through learning how to access and understand God's word for themselves. A variety of church members and leaders visit the group to share different aspects of the Christian life.
Alpha and Youth Alpha
Alpha is an internationally accredited course that runs periodically over a course of some 12 weeks and is geared to help people consider their lives in the light of Jesus - God's gift of love to us all. It is an excellent course for a broad range of people - those who are seeking meaning in life with no understanding of faith to new and long-term believers (who have become dry) to get foundational truths in place and the opportunity to receive God's Holy Spirit to bring their relationship with God alive.
The course is delivered in a structured but informal manner with lots of opportunity for discussion and questions... and plenty of food to eat!
Word Alive
Word Alive is Bible Study with a difference. It’s about reading the Bible with the Holy Spirit as your teacher, and entering into the events described as if you were there. It works by reading passages on your own in the week, then coming together as a group to ask questions, share insights and listen to some excellent teaching which brings out life-giving truths in the light of the whole Bible story. A brilliant way to read the Bible - fun, dynamic and helps establish a discipline by making yourself accountable to the group!
Man Friday
Man Friday is a small group that does what it says on the tin! Men meeting together on a Friday.
It offers a chance for men to spend time together - to chat, pray, read the Word, discuss its application, memorise scripture, and encourage each other in our walk with Jesus. Basic discipleship! It does include eating and drinking together too! Often held at the Open Door Centre Fridays 2-3pm
Aspire
Aspire is the Open Door Church Training Programme for leaders and those with potential. It is largely based upon the EQUIP material produced for John Maxwell's Million Leaders Mandate and includes many self-evaluation and church specific components. It challenges many character and behavioural issues and is not for the faint-hearted!
This takes place from time to time and is by invitation.
There's more...
While all this is good we recognise that there is still room to do more. We don't have a 'one size fits all' approach to small groups because life for all of us is so different. Our aim is to have groups with purpose which meet the needs of real people, helping each of us to build relationship and strengthen our faith in God together.
If you have an idea or a burden for small groups I want to hear from you.
Call me on 01733 708090 or email me at davekey@opendoorchurch-uk.com
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