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 DISCIPLESHIP Group.
Benefits of Discipleship 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 Discipleship Group is limited to those who are college age or older.
Current D-Groups & Next Training Date
Men’s Group ~ Meeting: 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month from 7-8 p.m. at the church ~ Leader: Jeff Rowe ~ Topic: Chuck Swindoll study ~ Starts July 11th.
Men’s Group ~ Meeting: every other Wednesday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the church ~ Leader: Ben Wagner ~ Topic: Foundations of the Bible ~ Starts July 5th.
Older Teen Girls (high school to having graduated this year) ~ Meeting: every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the church ~ Leader: Meg Wagner ~ Has already started but more are welcome to attend.
Women Widows ~ Meeting: every Wednesday at the church in the Library from 6-7 p.m. ~ Leader: Mari Lowery ~ Snacks and puzzles are provided!
D-Group Leader Training ~ Sunday, July 23rd after the morning service from 12-2 p.m. ~ Lunch provided ~ Anyone teen and up are welcome to attend.
Men’s Group ~ Meeting: every other Wednesday evening from 6-8 p.m. at the church ~ Leader: Ben Wagner ~ Topic: Foundations of the Bible ~ Starts July 5th.
Older Teen Girls (high school to having graduated this year) ~ Meeting: every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the church ~ Leader: Meg Wagner ~ Has already started but more are welcome to attend.
Women Widows ~ Meeting: every Wednesday at the church in the Library from 6-7 p.m. ~ Leader: Mari Lowery ~ Snacks and puzzles are provided!
D-Group Leader Training ~ Sunday, July 23rd after the morning service from 12-2 p.m. ~ Lunch provided ~ Anyone teen and up are welcome to attend.
Link to Express Your Interest in a Discipleship Group
We would love for you to be involved this year in a Discipleship Group. Please contact the church office at (301) 582-0155 for more information or click on the link below for our online interest form.
