Community Groups

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” – Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV)

It has taken us a while to get this going, but we are finally ready to start our new Community Groups at Emmanuel Presbyterian Church. The Christian life is not one that is meant to be lived in isolation. We are called to be a community of believers that are known particularly by our love for one another (John 13:35). It simply isn’t possible for our entire church to be fully involved in each other’s lives simply by attending worship every week. So, we need opportunities to develop closer relationships and build community. This is where Community Groups come in.

Community Groups are smaller Christian communities (approximately 8-18 people) within our larger church community. Christian discipleship and evangelism best happen in relationships, that is, in a community context. Community Groups provide that context. They are meant to be places where kingdom values are taught, demonstrated, and cherished. They are a venue for relationships to deepen, and an catalyst for people “doing life together.” They provide an opportunity for intimacy, mutual support, practical love and service, navigating the awkwardness of relating to people different than us, learning about the Christian faith, prayer, and sharing of what we see God doing in our midst. Community groups are led by trained leaders from the congregation who are given on-going support from the elders.

Our goal is to have a variety of Community Groups meeting through out the week in various locations on the northwest side of Austin. Each Community Group will be a little different. They will be customized to the leadership and membership of that group. But all of the groups will have some things in common. All Community Groups will meet a minimum of 2 times a month, but many will meet more frequently than that. All groups will have a fellowship element and focus, but some groups may be built more specifically around a particular Bible study, or other discipleship element. Some groups may offer child care, or focus their group more on children. Others may be aimed particularly at adults. Some groups may focus particularly on outreach or service. The distinctives of each group will be well communicated so you can choose a group that fits well for you and your family.

Regardless of the ways groups may vary, they will all meet regularly during the school year (September – May). Each will have at least an occasional meal for fellowship. Each will be a place for sharing, prayer, and accountability. Finally, all our Community Groups will be open, a place to bring friends and neighbors, regardless of whether they have ever attended EPC or not.

First, we are recruiting Community Group Hosts and Leaders. If you are interested in opening your home to host a community group, or in leading a group, or doing both. Please let us know as soon as possible. There will be a sign up sheet after worship on Sunday. Alternately you can contact Luke Hargrove or Pastor Ward, and let us know of your interest. We will be having our first leadership training meeting very soon.

Second, we strongly encourage everyone to get involved in a Community Group. Community Groups are the best place to get involved and stay connected to your EPC family. They are the best place to get to know each other better. They are the best place to be encouraged by one another in our Christian lives.

As soon as we have the schedule of times and locations of the various groups available we will post all of the information on our website. We will communicate it to you on Sunday morning as well. Then you just pick a group and join in the fun!