We pray that each person who identifies themselves with Grace Community Church may experience grace-based Christian relationships in Circles of Intimacy, Community and Identity.
We believe that Jesus modeled a life of relational balance that can be pictured in three concentric circles:
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The Circle of Intimacy
A small number of people, perhaps two or 3, who know us at
the deepest level of honesty. Example: Jesus had a unique
relationship with Peter, James and John, whom he took up on
the Mount of Transfiguration (Luke
9:28-36)
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The Circle of Community
A larger number of people with whom we are “living life together.”
This is the classic “small group” of 6 to 12 people
who share a common affinity or bonding. Example: Jesus shared life
and ministry with His 12 disciples (Luke
6:12-16)
The Circle of Identity
A group, the largest of all, that we can identify and recognize
as sharing something together – e.g. Grace attenders, Youth
Group, THIRST, etc. Example: Jesus interacts with larger crowds,
from the 72 that He sent out (Luke
10 ff) to crowds numbering in the thousands -- (Luke
9) .
Small Group Ministry at Grace
We expect Small Group Ministry – The Circle of Community – to function at Grace in three ways:
Connection Groups
These groups are led by any approved Grace member willing to host a small group gathering of people to discuss the Sermon, pray for one another and experience grace-based community. Because they are built around the Sermon with discussion questions, and focused on community more than ministry, we hope to facilitate starting these groups quickly and easily wherever there is interest and willingness.
Care Community
These are small group gatherings intentionally aimed at providing the “Circle of Community” (see our Small Group Vision) for the people of Grace. They are led by people who have been trained and discipled through our Discipleship Ministry using a solid Grace-oriented discipling series like Sonship. Materials used or topic studied can vary at the group’s discretion with the approval of the Ministries Pastor.
Current Listing of Care Communities
Ministry Groups
Any time more than four and less than 18 people gather together, there is an opportunity for small group fellowship. We recognize and support this ministry anywhere it happens in the course of life together here at Grace. Small groups within the Youth, Arts, Worship or Women’s ministry are an example.
How do I find a small group to join?
Click on the links above for current listings of our Connection Groups and Care Communities with their location, focus, time and availability. In addition, we keep a current list at the Welcome Center. Some groups may be closed due to size or subject. Otherwise, you are free to contact the leader and participate in any group that suits your needs or interests.
If you have further questions, contact Dean Cortese, 891-2006 or by e-mail.
Interested in small group study materials?
Check out the Grace booklist.
CARE COMMUNITY PROFILES
Travis and Amy Johnson
Ellen Walsh
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