Perhaps my first true experience of being part of a "small" group was in high school. During this time a youth leader at a local congregation opened up her home for high school students to come and hear the word of God, to eat together, to ask questions and find safety in each other's company. This became a model for me of what true community could look like.
Then in college I was both part of and lead a small group. It was here that I learned that small group leaders needed to be discipled and fed, apart from the group they were also leading. Here I learned to play with other leaders, trust mentors, and grow in my faith so I could pour into the life of others.
I miss small groups. I miss these beautiful pictures of the beloved community, where different people could come together and learn to live with and learn from one another. While I firmly believe that Sunday School is important, I also believe that small groups trace back to the early Methodist idea of classes, where holy, Christ centered relationships are built.
Where are your relationships with other Christians nurtured and how do such relationships spur you on in your faith journey?
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