Small Group Vision: GABC small groups are sub-communities of close relationships through which the Gospel is applied to believers’ lives and spread to unbelievers.
We’re excited about starting a new season of Small Group ministry in the life of Grand Avenue Baptist Church beginning this September. An incredibly important part of the Small Groups is you—the people of GABC—joining together in ministry to one another and on mission to our neighbors.
The Small Group Leaders met this past Monday evening in prayer for God’s wisdom and to decide to how to form and launch Small Groups. We believe the following is a wise path to forming groups that will fulfill our vision for small groups:
1. We will form all new groups in early September (thus, present groups will discontinue at the end of August).
2. To be in a Small Group, register by filling out our on-line registration form by downloading this “GABC Small Group Registration Form” and returning it. While one may sign-up at any time, we strongly encourage registration by August 30, to assist in helping groups launch in early September.
3. The Small Group Leaders will meet after Sunday, August 30 to assemble groups. This will be done taking into consideration group size, proximity and demographics of participants, schedule and child-care needs, and special concerns.
4. The Small Group Leaders will then contact their group members to begin meeting in early September. In most cases, particulars about meeting schedules, mission focus, and childcare provision will be decided upon as the group is formed and begins meeting together.
We acknowledge that forming groups is a potentially uncomfortable step, especially for those who have been in the same small group for a long time. We trust that close friendships from former groups will continue to thrive outside a shared small group. We also believe that forming new groups will be a helpful means that God will use in turning our eyes outward, preparing and training us to receive those he will bring to us to reach.
We’re excited to have you join us in a GABC Small Group as we apply the Gospel to one another’s lives and spread the Gospel to those who do not yet believe!