Grow

God exists in community.  We are created to be in community.  Something unique happens when individuals journey together.  Transformational relationships are a real possibility--by becoming a part of a small group.  A deeper relationship with Jesus, and others, is available by participating in a small group.  

    "For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them." Matthew 18:20


We are designed to seek God and enjoy a relationship with him, and to communally connect with and generate spiritual life in others.  The small group experience is an essential ingredient for the Christian life--a shared life--Jesus modeled it.  Learn what it means to live in community as God intends.  Experience the joy of the journey.  Schweitzer is a church of small groups.   The groups listed below are currently meeting.

    
Living Beyond Yourself:  Exploring the Fruit of the Spirit
Led by Jill Seagrave
Mondays, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Starts Sept. 10
Room 207
You can know the freedom of a life filled with the fruit of the Spirit.  Emphasizing the Book of Galatians, gain biblical instruction, explore the characteristics of fruit of the Spirit and living by the Spirit.  (11 weeks)

Rich in the Things that Count Most
Led By Liz Craig
Tuesdays, 2:00-3:00 p.m.
Starts Sept. 11
Room: Hospitality
While we may not be healthy when it comes to material things, every one of us can be rich in the things that count the most.  Through Scripture and compelling stories of faith, explore the real riches of our lives.  (14 weeks)

Pastor's Class: Going Deeper / Discussing the Weekly Message
Led By Lori Lampert, Jim Voigt, Jim Mason, Bob Casady
Wednesdays, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Starts Sept. 12
Room 204/206
You've heard a sermon that prompts questions and you want to go deeper.  You'd like to discuss some ideas, explore themes and concepts opened in our worship time.  Join the pastors on Wednesday evenings.

The Way of Forgiveness (Companions in Christ)
Led By Ellen Newby-Hines
Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Stars Sept. 13
Room 201
A small group experience designed to help us explore Christ's call to live a forgiven and forgiving life. It's a practical and inspirational study dealing with living in God's blessing, releasing shame & guilt, and more.  (9 weeks)

Daniel - Lives of Integrity & Words of Prophecy
Led By Matt & JoEllen Aviles
Sundays, 9:40-10:40 a.m.
Starts Sept. 16
Room 106
This study deals with the life of a prophet facing pressures and temptations similar to those faced by us in today's world.  Video presentations, discussion and class preparation are included in the study of integrity.  (24 weeks)

Alpha - A Practical Introduction to the Christian Faith
Led By Jim Mason
Sundays, 5:15-7:30 p.m.
Starts Sept. 16
In Memorial Hall
A practical introduction to faith, this class is designed for people who have questions about what it means to be a Christian. In this relaxed Christianity 101 course, we'll hear and talk about the core basics of the faith.  (10 weeks)

Experiencing the Heart of Jesus
Led By Dan & Christine Emrie
Mondays, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Starts Sept. 17
At Emrie's home
So many of us know about Jesus--his story is universal.  But do you really know him - his habits, his emotions, his passions, his personality?  This study is about really knowing him.  Step closer to Jesus.  (10 weeks)

Amazing Freedom (Women of Faith)
Led By Nicole Cologna
Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Sept. 20
Room 106
What holds you back from experiencing freedom?  Endless lists of to-dos, obligations, lack of confidence, fear of being vulnerable?  This practical, biblical study discovers the amazing freedom we have in Christ.  (12 weeks)

Introduction to the New Testament
Led By Milton & Judy Folkins
Sundays, 4:00-5:30 p.m.
Starts Sept. 23
Room 207
Moving through the Gospel of Matthew, overarching themes from this story of Jesus provide the topics for discussion.  Themes are traced through other related passages in the New Testament.  Daily reading included in this study. (9 weeks)

God Is Closer Than You Think
Led By Molly & Dennis Edwards
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Starts Oct. 2
At Edwards' home
This study takes you on a journey that will help you experience God's presence in your life, hear God speak in ways you understand, and discover God's desire to be with you.  (6 weeks)

Romans - Find Freedom
Led By Rich & Donna DeVries
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Starts Oct. 2
Location: Albright 204/206
This study from Willow Creek Resources explores the book of Romans where God points us to the path of freedom.  Explore life-changing topics from a biblical perspective.  (6 weeks)

The Life You've Always Wanted
Led By Mark & Dorothy Harsen
Mondays, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
StartsOct. 8
Location: Albright 203/205
If you're tired of the status quo - if you suspect there is more Christianity than what you've experienced--this study points to a road of transformation and spiritual vigor that anyone can take!  (6 weeks)

Creating an Intimate Marriage
Led By Steve & Marilyn Roberts
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Starts Sept. 12
Room 210
Scripture based small group study focused on growing as a couple spiritually, affectionately, and intimately.  This practical study is ideal for couples of all ages and stages of marriage.

Movers & Shakers
Led By Ed Hewlitt
Memorial Hall
Men's group meeting on Mondays either for breakfast at 6:45 to 7:00, or lunch from 11:30 to 12:30 in Memorial Hall (lower level).  Various bible studies/spiritual growth opportunities and good food!  Ed Hewlett is the point of contact at 881-6800, ext. 123.

God's Lunch Bunch
women's group meeting on Wednesday's from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Meet for lunch and study a chapter or two of the bible.  Opportunity for learning, sharing and applying faith.  Lead by Marie Hewlett (883-2906), Polly Vance (882-7373) and Jan Bloch.



In addition to the groups listed above, new groups are forming all the time.  Please call, or email:


 Jim Mason (jmason@schweitzerumc.org), or

 Deanna Gorden (881-6800, ext. 141 or dgorden@schweitzerumc.org)


if you are interested in learning more, joining a group or starting a group.  As a people empowered church, we encourage our members to use their gifts to include leading small groups.  Jim and Deanna can assist you with selecting a study or any other questions you may have.