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Ellen Walsh

When did you become involved in your current small group?

THIRST (Singles 30+) - 3 years ago

Why did you make the commitment?

I was attending a large church where there was no ‘community’ for single adults; the ministries were geared for children and families (all good stuff, but I didn’t feel like I was able to connect as part of the family.)  The fact that Grace had a singles group for people over thirty, and I actually admit to being over 30 once in a while, was interesting to me. 

What difference has being in the small group made in your life?

Being in a small group has made a big difference; it’s helped me to connect and to be part of the Grace ‘family’.  People know me by name, and I’m getting to know more folks by name as well.  They’ve recognized my gifts and have helped me to plug in at my own pace.  They’ve come along side me and prayed with me and for me.  They care about the life events that are of concern to me, and we share the journey whenever possible.   So they know more then my name, it’s not just a polite handshake on Sunday’s -  they know me.

Describe a particular moment or time when the people around you had the most impact.

I’ve found a welcome loving Spirit in the leaders and folks in the Thirst ministry.  Single’s groups can be - awkward to say the least.  The leadership of Thirst strives to cultivate a safe environment where we can be real with one another in love.  I really appreciate that aspect of our small group community.

How have you been able to make a difference in the lives of others?

I hope so.  They’ve recognized and affirmed my gifts and invited me to serve alongside with them, reminding me that God has a place and purpose for each of us in His family.

How have you seen others changed?

Yes.  I think we choose to be in community because we want to connect, grow, and go deeper with God.  I see friends in the group seeking to do the heart work (and that’s a personal thing), being honest with themselves and with each other.  We stretch each other and encourage each other through the joys and bumps in the journey.

What do you like best about the experience?

Seeing God work in me and others - miraculous.  Knowing I’m well loved and that there’s a part of the Grace community that knows my hurts and joys, and is ready and excited to come along side me (as I am with them).

What has it taught you about working through the often messy business of relationships?

It’s worth it.  I don’t bring perfection to the table, so I can’t expect perfection from anyone else.  I want friends to be sensitive to where I’m at, and at the same time I have to stop and give them the benefit of the doubt as well.  We weren’t meant to go it alone, I think its part of God’s plan that we’re in community, loving, being loved, and helping one another along. 

How have you found time to fit in your schedule?

At first I thought it would be hard because I work a lot of hours and have limited time on the weekends to get it all done.  But I’ve found that the small group community is a refreshing stream in the dessert for me, I look forward to getting together with the group.  Doing my own personal heart work helps me to keep different aspects of my life in perspective.  Being involved in a small group helps me to see beyond myself, it helps me to understand others better, and that’s all freeing and refreshing.

How has being involved in a small group changed your experience of church?

It enriches my experience of church.  I’m not worshipping solo, or in hiding, I’m worshipping, learning, and growing with my blemishes showing, forgiven and loved by God and welcome and accepted as part of His family.  It’s a refreshing, rejuvenating soul building experience that helps carry me through the week. 

Travis and Amy Johnson

When did you become involved in your current small group?

January of 2005

Why did you make the commitment?

We wanted to form deeper relationships with people who we had become acquainted with at church.  We had lived here for 2 years and had formed a lot of friends, but few who loved Jesus.  We were craving relationships with people who loved Jesus.

What difference has being in the small group made in your life?

We now have great friends at Church.  We have friends we can call when we have a need -- and we have been.  It also has been great to share the joys of life, especially the births of our son Patton and the Holden’s son Kian with our new family.

Describe a particular moment or time when the people around you had the most impact.

We recently had a new son, and our small group has surrounded us with love!  We have had incredible dinners, and even on some afternoons when we have needed a break, some of the members have come and “stolen” our 2-year-old for a day at the park!

How have you been able to make a difference in the lives of others?

Over the past year we have had births of children, family members pass away, job changes, and difficulties with child raising.  Life “keeps on happening” with all of its struggles.  It has been great to have each other in all of it.

What do you like best about the experience?

The friendships.

What has it taught you about working through the often messy business of relationships?

We are all messy.

How have you found time to fit it in your schedule?

You have to make time, but it is needed -- and worth it.

How has being involved in a small group changed your experience of church?

We feel like when we worship, we are worshipping with our community.