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Group Ministries

Group Ministries

Groups are a key way of involving all the members of the congregation in discipleship, both in being discipled and in discipling others. It is a means of connecting in a significant, nurturing way with a smaller group within the larger congregation.

The group ministry at Northminster consists of small groups, medium-sized groups and large groups. It is the philosophy of this congregation that as many groups will be formed as are needed to meet existing discipleship needs. Groups meet on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. They may meet for purposes of service, fellowship, prayer/Bible study, or support.

   

A small group usually consists of four to 12 people. Medium-sized groups may have from 12-25 members. Large groups are those with over 25 members.

Types of Groups

A group ministry is made up of different types of groups:

  • Worship Groups, such as the choirs and the Contemporary Praise Team, participate in worshp in the group context.
  • Prayer/Bible Study Groups meet to study and pray together.
  • Support Groups meet to share common needs, to share hopes, view strategies and to pray for one another.
  • Fellowship Groups gather in Christian fellowship, often sharing meals. The meetings of these groups may involve entertainment, devotions, lectures, or other activities.
  • Service Groups gather together to engage in some type of service to others. For example, the Quilters meet once a week to make quilts, many of which are donated to police and fire agencies as gifts for children in crisis.

Leadership in Groups

Some groups, such as the Sanctuary Choir and the Contemporary Praise Team, are led by staff members. Other types of groups, particularly fellowship groups, elect their leaders.

Many small groups may be led by those who feel called to establish the group. Some of these people, however, are reluctant to accept a leadership role because of a lack of knowledge and experience in group leadership.

Northminster will, on a regular basis, be providing group leadership training sessions. These sessions are intended to give group leaders an understanding of group dynamics, goal-setting and strategies for groups, and techniques for assuring maximum opportunity for participation.

Leadership training is not mandatory, but it will be provided to anyone who feels that he/she may be called to lead a group. For further information on group leadership training, please contact us.

Duration of Groups

The duration of a group is based largely on the type of group. Some, such as the choirs, are expected to exist indefinitely. Others, such as a particular Bible study, may only exist for a period of weeks or months until the study is complete.

Some people may prefer not to make an indefinite commitment to a group. For that person, a group with a definite starting and ending date may be an excellent choice. Another person may prefer to commit to the stability of a group which is expected to stay in business until the Second Coming.

It is important to remember that neither of these options is better than the other. Different groups function with different dynamics. The most important thing is that God’s people gather together and that, in those gatherings, we follow, as closely as possible, the example of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Group Development

Bea Carter, Lay Ministries Coordinator, is the contact person for those who would like to connect with a group and those who would like to begin and build a group. Bea is available to help you find your place to serve. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Current Groups at Northminster