Ministries: Care Groups

One of the primary ways we build relationships and
cultivate fellowship with each other here is through a
network of small groups-what we call "Care Groups."
While we are joined to all believers in the local church,
Care Groups allow us to relate more deeply with a small
number of people. An integral part of our church's
ministry since its founding, Care Groups provide an
important context for accomplishing a number of
biblical priorities.

"The value of the small group is that it can become a
community of related persons, and in it the benefit of
relatedness cannot be missed nor its challenge evaded. I

Purpose

1. Application of God's word to our lives. Merely hearing God's word is insufficient; we must apply it to
our lives for there to be fruit. Care Groups enable us to do this together. We seek to apply the
Bible's teaching, review Sunday messages, discuss Christian books, and use a variety of other
resources with the intention of growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Pursuit of biblical fellowship. Genuine fellowship isn't practical in a large crowd. Care Groups provide
a place where we can build intimate relationships, care for one another, and help each other grow in
our relationship with God.

3. Ministry to one another. God has made us dependent on each other, and Care Groups provide a
context where we can minister to each other with the gifts that God has given us. Meetings often
include times of prayer for one another and opportunities for individuals to exercise spiritual gifts for
the edification of others.

Participation

Membership at Grace Church involves active
participation in a Care Group. Those who are new to
the church can attend Connections [hyperlink] and
begin connecting with the pastors and learning the
beliefs and values of the church. Connections is a great
place to ask questions and get to know others who are
exploring whether to make Grace Church their church
home.

Responsibilities

Each member is important to the group and should

seek to contribute to the group's health and success. We each have the privilege and responsibility in our
group to:

1. Faithfully attend meetings and functions. We're much more likely to benefit if we are actually
present!

2. Willingly participate. Come ready to contribute, to serve, to share, and to open yourself to others.
Both you and others will benefit from your participation.

3. Build relationships with other members outside the meeting. Don't confine your investment to the
Care Group meeting-let this be the springboard to rich, enduring relationships.