Under the leadership of well-trained lay leaders, these groups meet weekly or biweekly to engage in Bible study, prayer, worship, service and fellowship. They typically meet in each others' homes and generally include a time for each member to share the joys and struggles, the praises and the prayer requests. In such a context, deep trust and unconditional acceptance form a firm foundation upon which life-long friendships and significant spiritual growth can happen.

What is a Small Group?

A Small Group is 3-16 people who covenant to meet regularly for the following purposes:

• Community building and care: Learning to know and trust one another in a relaxed and personal setting, and becoming more comfortable sharing personal thoughts and feelings.
• Bible study: Encourages group members to interact with the Bible. Through reading and discussing particular passages, group members grow as Jesus' disciples.
• Prayer and worship: Praying, singing, praising, listening, and reading about all God has done. The scriptures say every time we respond to God with love and obedience - that is worship.
• Missional service: Reaching out with Christ's love to meet the needs of people outside the group and inviting others to join.

Are Small Groups biblically based?

Yes they are! Read what the Bible says:

"For where two or three come together in my name, there I am with them." Matthew 18:20

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25

"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this:'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 12:30-31

Why are Small Groups important?

Small group life has been recognized by CLPC as a core ministry, and more importantly, as a Christian community. The Small Group Ministry is the primary means by which we express and implement this lifestyle in our church.

Small groups are open ended. They are inviting fellowships of caring, growing Christians who believe that making disciples of all people is our primary calling.

Small groups are ministry focused. Our spirutual growth is for the purpose of affirming and using our God given talents in service to others.

How do I find out more?

If you would like any other information on CLPC's small-group ministry, please contact one of the following individuals:

• Steph Greenstein (Small Group Committee Chair): 281-316-5961 (home), 832-366-5208 (cell)
• Allison Groten (Discipleship Elder): 281-480-7471 (home), 713-295-1363 (cell)