What is a Small Group?
A Small Group is 5-22 people who build a caring community seeking spiritual transformation as they get to know and care about one another and serve God. Small group members come together to:
- BELONG in a caring group of people where you are known and have the chance to build authentic spiritual friendships.
- BECOME more like Christ by pursuing spiritual growth through prayer, Bible study, and other personal and group spiritual practices.
- BLESS by serving with others using gifts and callings. Demonstrate Christ's love for the world, and and help form new groups to benefit others.
If you enjoy the fellowship and worship of Sunday morning, but would feel more comfortable asking questions or sharing personal experiences in a more intimate group of friends, a small group is a good way to go. You will meet new people, have opportunities to grow in faith, and share your faith, and also serve your church and community.
To get started, email our Small Group Coordinators, Becky White (beckywhite2@gmail.com) or Nina Clippard (ninaclippard@comcast.net) with the following information: your name, phone number and address, group preference (age grouping you would prefer, or mixed aged -- gender specific or mixed -- singles, couples, or mixed) and days/evenings you are available to meet. Most groups meet in member homes, although some groups meet in local restaurants, at church, or in other locations. You will be contacted to be matched with a small group to visit. If you enjoy your experience, you can join that group. Otherwise, other opportunities will be identified.
If you are interested in serving in leadership in our small group ministry, contact Pastor Tom Campbell-Schmitt at standrewspdx@qwestoffice.net. Training opportunities are available throughout the year.
The Opportunity
Community. God created us to live in relationships, with each other and with God. Authentic community involves sharing life together and connecting on many levels with others in a group setting.
Group Development. Every group goes through various stages as members get to know each other, come to care about each other, bond and mature together. The process is like the human life cycle in many ways.
Bible Study. God provided the Bible as an "instruction manual" for us. We need to study the Bible to better understand God and our own purpose. The process of study and discussion in a group will help us to grow in faith and spiritual maturity.
Change. Part of the purpose of belonging to a group is to facilitate your own growth and change, as God leads you toward a clearer understanding of what it is to follow Christ as a disciple. This happens when we take the risk to allow God to speak to us through the interactions with a group.
Healing and Redemption. Healing happens best in the context of a caring community of friends. Small groups help us to see ourselves through the eyes of others, to share our stories and fears, and ultimately to be released from the things that keep us from being the people God intended us to be.
Mission. God wants us to make a positive difference in the world, through acts of service and love. This involves setting the captives free, healing the broken-hearted, and sharing the life-changing truth of Christ.
| Group | Mariners |
|---|---|
| City | Portland |
| Focus | Adults |
| Gender | Anyone |
| Leader | White, Chuck and Becky (Click here to email) |
| Day | Sunday |
| Time | 1:00AM |
| Child Care | No |
| Location | Portland Get Directions » |
| Description | St. Andrew's has eight Mariner ships for members of varying ages. Contact the Whites to be steered to an appropriate ship, or to start building a new one! |
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