In Scripture, small groups are frequently the way God helps to prepare and develop persons of faith. Even in the Old Testament, Gideon selects a few persons, rather than a massive army, to go the work which needs doing. Someone has called that small group "Gideon's Gang". Moses also learned to divide the People of Israel into small companies so they could be better served and taught and led. Jesus began his ministry with a group of a dozen very close followers, a small group that launched a millennium-old and global effort. John Wesley, the founder of the Wesleyan Movement in the mid-1700's, also relied upon small groups of different sizes--from larger gatherings, to meetings of a dozen, to the most intensive meetings of four or so.
We share a belief that seeking persons, new Christians and mature ones are best incubated and developed in small groups. There is no point in starting someone on a Christian's path without also providing them with companions to accompany and mature them. That's why we offer small groups to all.
The pastor can help you to find a way to begin with one of the groups. Contact Pastor Linda McCollough at 612-978-2917, or at pastorlindamc@gmail.com.
Our Adult Forums and some of our standing ministry teams and groups also are, in effect, disciplining and support groups. We encourage each of them to use prayer and relational support in their ministries, whether as choir, women's groups, or ministry teams.
Women's Circles
Most of these groups meet under the auspices of the United Methodist Women. Please inquire with the United Methodist Women (UMW) leadership, including Jane Baker, the current chairperson.
Handcrafters
Handcrafters is a group of about twelve women who gather at the church monthly to knit, crochet, sew, tat, or other type of handcraft. The ladies have an annual bazaar at the church usually in November. Bazaar items included Christmas decorations, stuffed animals, hats, mittens, scarves, silent auction items and other types of crafts. Income goes to various charities each year.
Breakfast Group
The Breakfast Group meets on the fourth
Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m. at Liberty's Restaurant. Each gathering begins
with a devotion, followed by a selection of jokes (Humor is important!).
This group is open to all; both singles and couples attend and enjoy the
fellowship with one another. Breakfast is Dutch treat; everyone pays for
their own.
Book Studies
We offer periodic book studies of popular or award-winning literature from fiction, spirituality, political-economy and other fields in order to keep ourselves alert and informed Christian disciples.
