Why a small group ministry?
At Harvest, we refer to ourselves as a "Relational church, with a heart for the harvest". We have found that being a part of a small group is an incredible way to discover close "knit" relationships in the Body of Christ. "...from whom the whole Body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments grows..." (Col. 2:19) "That their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love..." (Col. 2:2). Community groups meet twice monthly.s left His church with a mandate. “Go and make disciples…’ (Matt. 28:19). In order to fulfill that mandate, at Harvest we believe that every person needs to be growing in three relationships in order to grow as a follower of Christ (becoming a disciple).
· First, we need to be growing in our relationship with God;
· Second, we need to be growing in our relationship with other followers of Christ as we live out our Christianity in Biblical community;
· Third, we need to be growing in our relationship with a world that needs to hear about the love of God and see that love practically demonstrated. We say it this way: Every follower of Christ needs to love God, love each other and love the world.
We feel that the best way to grow by ‘loving each other’ is to participate in a small group.
What is a small group?
A small group by definition is small! It is a group of people, 12 or less, that meet every other week in homes throughout the City and area, for friendship and spiritual growth. Small group is a place for friends to share life together and learn how to follow Jesus together.
Who oversees small groups?
Each small group leader has at one time been a small group participant. Small group leaders are part of the Harvest family and meet regularly with the Small Group Coordinator for accountability and leadership development.
What are the benefits of being in a small group?
· Connection: Being in a small group is one of the key ways to make meaningful friendships at Harvest Christian Fellowship, so that you feel ‘connected’ with the Church. We find it is the place where people become family.
· Care and Support: When you are in a small group, you know that you have friends and a small group leader that are there to help and support you, in every season of life.
· Leadership: Being in a small group connects you to a small group leader who can help you grow in your relationship with God and in becoming the person that God created you to be.
· Gifting: A small group is a place where you are needed. Small groups are not just about what you can get, but also about what you can give. Being in a small group will give you the opportunity to discover, develop and release your gifts and abilities to serve God and others. Eventually, you may even have the opportunity to lead your own small group , if such is your desire.
How do I get involved in a small group?
Most of the people at Harvest Christian Fellowship are connected to a small group, so the best way to get involved is to simply ask one of your friends about the small group they attend.
If you are new to Harvest and still in the process of making a connection, you can contact the church office and they will direct you to the right small group.
What Commitment Do I Make When I Join a Small Group?
Participants are encouraged to attend their small group meetings on a regular basis. At Harvest, we value individuals and are aware of the concern and importance of confidence and trust, which is the reason we encourage and also pride ourselves on building relationships that develop these great qualities.
Keeping a Family Atmosphere as we Continue to Grow
