Small Groups
Did you know that God did not design us to lead lives of isolation, but instead we are to be vitally connected with Him, and with one another? At Trinity, we want you to experience true community. Our small groups are where people make real, meaningful and lasting connections; therefore, we place a high value on group life and the life-change associated with those groups.
“A quarter of Americans say they have no one with whom they can discuss personal troubles, more than double the number who were similarly isolated in 1985.” Shankar Vedantam, Washington Post, June 23, 2006
What is a Small Group?
Small Groups at Trinity are the perfect place to connect with others and God at the same time. Small groups consist of 6 to 14 people who are committed to each other, and to the common goal of growth in Christ. Small Groups are more than a meeting. Group life incorporates a variety of experiences, including relationship building, shared meals, personal care, prayer, Bible study and community service. All of this is intended to inspire spiritual growth.
At Trinity, our desire is for groups to be a place where people:
- BELONG to a biblical community. Groups develop a strong sense of community as they care for one another by developing God-honoring relationships.
- GROW in relationship with Jesus Christ. Groups study and apply Scripture together along with prayer to encourage personal spiritual growth.
- SERVE others in missions and ministry. Groups provide an environment for people to serve together and encourage every group member to be serving regularly.
- MULTIPLY leaders for future growth. Groups create places for new members to belong and grow as they multiply leaders to facilitate new groups every 12 – 18 months.
How does it work?
Small Groups meet in homes or other venues such as restaurants, offices or coffee shops through the Lehigh Valley. Each group determines meeting time and location. The start and stop time of weekly group meetings will be determined by group members within the first couple of meetings. Groups typically meet for an hour and a half to two hours.
Every group is unique, but there are some common denominators. Most groups include a time for fellowship. The central growth component is the study of a relevant Bible study or sermon series. Groups process Truth together and encourage life application. Group meetings also provide the opportunity to pray for one another.
“Real community is so much more than just showing up at services… It includes unselfish loving, honest sharing, practical serving, sacrificial giving, sympathetic comforting, and all the other “one another” commands found in the New Testament.” Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life
Many groups build discussions around the Sunday morning sermons while others purchase small group studies recommended by the church staff. Periodically, the whole church will work through a coordinated small group study.
How long a group will meet together is determined by each group. It is understood that people will not be in the same group forever; however, it is not uncommon for them to be together 12 – 18 months and then have several group members “branch out” to start a new group. There are some groups that are designated as short-term groups (four – six weeks).
How do I plug in?
If you meet other individuals who have an opening in their Group, you may visit that group immediately. Or simply complete an Interest Card at the welcome center in the foyer outside the sanctuary. A small group representative will contact you.
Can I start my own group?
We love it when people are interested in leading a group of their own. Please contact the Trinity’s office at 610-398-1711.
What about my children?
Our groups handle childcare in a variety of ways. Some Parents arrange their own childcare. Other groups have the children come to group meetings and are kept by a sitter or rotating group members. Sometimes, all the children are kept at one member’s house while the adults meet at another house.
|
|
|
|