Each of us want to learn to be best of friends with Jesus. We do this by knowing more about Him and His teachings. What better way to learn than by sharing life's experiences with good friends? Through their learning experience, we can also learn - we will hear about and discuss Bible readings in a way we have not considered before.

We were formed for God's family. God wants us to be part of his family. Sometimes when attending a large church for only an hour a week, we don't receive enough spiritual input to carry us through the week. We feel distant, perhaps the process of attending church is more perfunctory, than meaningful. When joining a small group, you immediately find your place in the church. You can participate with the group, or just relax and listen and learn. When you are in a small group you are with friends who often feel much like you do and are struggling to know the Lord.

Have you ever read a portion of the Bible and then wondered if you understood what you just read? Or perhaps, the Pastor mentions something in church and your say, "I would like to know more"... or " Why is that so"? What is the difference between a disciple and apostle? The small group allows you to follow up and ask those questions, participate in a discussion, and hear how others understand the issue.

The small group is a place to belong. It is a place where you can move your spiritual life forward at your pace and at your level of understanding. Studying the Scriptures is like climbing a mountain: as you learn more, climb higher, you become aware of further vistas. You can see more clearly, and also know that there is more to learn....more to do...more to study and pray about. You do this in a non- threatening way with friends and neighbors.

Your small group offers you a place for more focused and personal spiritual growth. You also get a chance to know others.

Many feel that worshiping and praying in a private setting is less threatening than in public with many strangers around. The small group avoids this.

Using classroom learning as an example, the size of the class makes a difference in learning. It is understood that smaller classes improves the learning experience. Here the small group environment can help all of us learn the Word.

Prayer is essential for Christians. Some people are reluctant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a small group you learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one has to pray in the group, but soon you'll be able to pray sentence prayers and join us. By learning to pray we find answers to the needs in our lives.