Life Groups
Paul Simon wrote a famous song in 1965 entitled, “I am a Rock.” It became hugely famous…but it represents very poor theology. The song says…“I have no need of friendship; friendship causes pain…I touch no one and no one touches me.” God, however, did not design us to be “rocks” or “islands”. Spiritual maturity can only happen in the context of relationship and that is what our small groups ministry, called “Life Groups”, is all about…allowing people the opportunity to connect with others on more than a casual basis on a Sunday morning. We view ourselves as the Valley Grace family, so joining a Life Group is a good way of feeling more connected to the family as you get to know people more deeply. We want everyone who calls Valley Grace home to experience authentic Christian community in a small group setting. Doing LIFE together with a small group allows you to let down your guard, be transparent about your struggles and open your heart to the truths of the Gospel that bring transformation. Groups of all types and purposes meet throughout the week.Groups are usually made up of 10-16 people (plus children) and meet once or twice per month. These are just some of the benefits that come with joining a Valley Grace LIFE Group.
Benefits of Life Groups
- Growing intimacy with God and others
- Significant conversations about real life
- People who care about you and your family
- Making a meaningful contribution to the lives of others
- Laughter, fun and food
- Opportunities to serve God together
Commitment - This is a four month commitment (small groups are only as effective as the commitment level of those in the groups - so your faithful participation is absolutely necessary). At the beginning of the new year you may choose to stay with the same group if you've made a great connection, or try a different group. Most Life Groups break during the summer.
Participation in a Life Group is limited to those who are college age or older.
Here are the groups (at this time) which are available to you to join.
Option 1: (Anyone)
Hosts/Location: Alma Grams=s home (rotating schedule of locations)
Leaders: Kenny & Darlene Knight and Alma Grams
Meets: 1st Saturday of each month (except on holidays)
Notes: No childcare available
Option 2: (Anyone)
Hosts: Hartts and Osbornes
Location: Church
Leaders: Steve & Rebekah Hartt & Chuck & Erika Osborne
Meets: Third Sunday each month from 11:45-1:30
Lunch: Potluck with main course provided
Notes: Childcare will be provided for the study time
Option 3: (Anyone)
Hosts: Cabushes & Messers
Location: various homes
Leaders: Pastor Jim/Tina Cabush and Dennis/Jamie Messer
Meets: 2nd & 4th Friday nights @ 6:30
Topic: Marriage & parenting
Notes: Children are welcome, but no formal childcare
Option 4: The Guild (Men)
Hosts/Location: Valley GBC
Leader: Pastor Ray Barger
Meets: Every Tuesday @ 6:15 AM
Notes: No childcare available
Option 5: (Women)
Hosts/Location: Valley GBC (Library)
Leader: Mari Lowery & Karen Hardcastle
Meets: Every Wednesday @ 6:00 PM
Notes: Childcare available
Option 6: (Anyone)
Hosts/Location: Valley GBC (Library)
Leader: Pastor Ray Barger
Meets: Every Wednesday @ 4:30 PM
Notes: No childcare available
Option 7: Journey through the Bible (Anyone)
Hosts/Location: Valley GBC (Modular A)
Leader: Pastor Dan Pritchett
Meets: Every Wednesday @ 6:00 PM
Notes: Childcare is available through your child’s participation in our AWANA program
Option 8: (Men)
Hosts/Location: Valley GBC (Lounge)
Leader: Pastor Dan Pritchett
Meets: Twice a month on Wednesday (TBA) @ 7:45 PM
Notes: No childcare available
Option 9: (Women)
Hosts/Location: Valley GBC (Modular A)
Leaders: Kris Rowe & Meg Wagner
Meets: Tuesday from 12:15-1:30
Notes: No childcare available during school year
Here is a link to indicate your interest or request more information about any of the Life Groups. I will forward your request on to the appropriate leaders.
Life Group Interest / Information Request Form
We would love for you to be involved this year in a Life Group. Please contact Pastor Douglas A Courter @ Valley Grace for more information (301) 582-0155.