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Regular members of St Mary’s are encouraged to join a small group for Bible study, worship, prayer, support - and fun!
As the Church continues to grow, it becomes more important to be part of a small group. Small groups are special places within the Church offering:
- A place of welcome for regular members and new Christians alike
- A place to encounter God in worship, silence, study, reflection and prayer
- A place to encounter trusted friends, where deep sharing can occur
- A place of growth, personally and corporately, both in numbers and in faith
There are common aims across all small groups
- Growth in discipleship
- Real friendships – create a place of belonging
- Openness to God and to each other
- Understanding God’s word and His ways
- Prayer
- Service – equipping, preparing and finding opportunities for people to serve
Q Do you have specific groups for different ages/groups within the church?
A The majority of our groups are all-age, mixed sex groups but we also have a cluster of Women-only groups and a cluster for those in their 20s and 30s. Small groups meet on a variety of days throughout the week, some in the daytime and others in the evening.
Q I have only been coming to St Mary’s a short while – can I be placed in a group?
A We would love everyone who attends St Mary’s regularly to attend a small group. However, we do encourage new people to fill in a blue ‘Welcome’ card and attend the next available Newcomer’s Evenings before joining a small group. As part of the Newcomer’s Evenings there is an opportunity to find out more about small groups and meet the Small Group Administrator.
Q Can I join a friend’s group or just try out a few groups?
A In general we request that the first point of contact is the Small Group Administrator. As a large church with over 30 small groups we have found that the central point of contact is best for ensuring stability of groups and the best possible placing of people into the right group first time.
Q So who is the Small Group Administrator, what do they do and how do I contact them?
A Ann Piper is the Small Groups Administrator and can be contacted via the church office 01202 253527 or via our online enquiry link. She keeps up-to-date records of changes in small groups, connects group leaders with new members and provides admin support for the Small Group Co-ordinator.
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