SMALL GROUPS (KINSHIPS)
We currently have two Small Groups that meet regularily on alternate weeks. We have a group for women and a group for men. The women's group meets near South Street and Colbourn Street. The men's group meet in the area of Highbury and Wavell Streets. Please call the church office at 519-639-8463 for more information.
We believe that if people aren't in a place where they can be personally known, challenged and encouraged, their lives with Jesus will be isolated and boring. At Thames Valley Vineyard, small groups exist to facilitate:
COMMUNITY
All the believers were together and had everything in common... (Acts 2:44)
We can live out the 'one anothers'... (there are over 40 in Romans through 3 John!)
CAUSE & COMMITMENT
"...teaching them everything I have commanded you." (Matthew 28)
"...different ways to serve...all from the same Lord." (1 Corinthians 12:5)
CHARACTER
Pastoring people to be intimately connected to Jesus. (John 15)
Destroying consumerism - Jesus' church versus 'me' church.
WHAT DO SMALL GROUPS DO?
Small groups meet at least every two weeks. We usually make time for people to share about their week and catch up with each other. Prayer is also an important part of our gatherings and if you have a prayer request we will take time to pray with you.
We interactively talk about how God's Word applies to our lives. This is a great opportunity to learn from the Bible and ask questions that you might not be able to ask in a larger church context. The facilitator encourages the entire group to participate, to ask questions, and to figure out how to live God's truth in everyday life. As we said earlier, prayer is important to us so always make time to pray for one another and ask God to come and meet our personal needs. A small group is the best place to receive pastoral care, and can become an incredible source of healing and health.
Every group is a little different, and the guidelines mentioned here are pretty flexible. Sometimes we'll spend the entire time praying, or teaching, or worshipping, or just hanging out. It depends on what seems most relevant to the specific group and the specific night.
HOW DO I GET INVOLVED IN A SMALL GROUP?
Our small groups are open, meaning that anyone can go to any small group. Every small group is a little different, so you may want to try and visit a few before you decide which one is the best fit for you.