SMall Groups
Doing life together' is a core principle of GBC. We recognise that the Bible
clearly teaches that we were made for fellowship, or in more contemporary
language relationships. First God desires to have a real and relevant
relationship with us. What a fantastic message that is for the world! God is
not impersonal and remote, He is the very opposite. That's why he sent His Jesus
to the world. He died for our sins so we could be brought back into
relationship with a pure and just God. That's real friendship! The Bible talks
about a man giving up his life for his friend as a 'gold standard' for real
love.
He also knows the value of relationships with others. It is not His purpose that
people should feel isolated or cut off from those around them. God knows that
we need real friendships and helpers who can help us reach our potential and
serve Him best. Small Groups are one of the ways we attempt to help people find
genuine friendships and fellowships.
These groups meet, usually on a weekly basis, to study God's word, pray and
support each other as they seek to live out God's word. These groups also offer
a fantastic opportunity for fun, social outings and just a place to connect to
others. We try to keep the groups below 15 members so they can be relaxed and
easy places for people to feel at home.
Meetings generally start at 8pm and should be over by shortly after 9pm. Most
groups meet on either a Wednesday or Thursday night. One group meets on a
Tuesday night and we are open to new groups and times to be considered. The
recommended timetable for a Small Group would be as follows:
8pm - Welcome
8.05pm - Worship and Prayer
8.30pm - Bible Study/Discussion
9pm - Close and time for supper!
The ethos of the Small Groups is that people should feel safe and know they are
cared for by the group. No pressure is placed on members to pray or take part
publicly. It's fine to just enjoy the company until you feel confident to get
involved. The group should be a place that makes you feel able to discuss
issues in confidence and know it will be respected.
These groups are not only enjoyable but they should be places that are outward
looking. Small Groups are sen as mini-GBCs. We encourage groups to get
involved in the five purposes of the church. This includes acts of ministry
e.g. helping members of our community practically and outreach events e.g.
special classes being run like Christianity Explored. Some groups are also
praying about going on mission breaks as a team!
Small Groups are just great! I have been a leader of three groups and have
loved each. They have helped me growth, given me encouragement during though
times and been a source of amazing fun and pleasure constantly. Please consider
getting involved. and I will
do my best to find you a group that will help you do life together with others
who want to please God. Yours sincerely, Frazer Bailie (Small Group Leader)
Leader
Frazer Bailie co-ordinates our small groups
small group news