GROW – Spiritual Formation through Study and Sharing
I don’t know if you have noticed how much I talk about ‘Growing as a Disciple.’ I talk about that a lot because it is so important to me. So important in fact, that I left local church work for 15 years to help train youth workers in disciple-making youth ministry.
Now Mary Beth and I are emphasizing disciple-making ministries at Bethlehem. For us, this means spiritual growth in smaller groups along with receiving, connecting and reaching ministries. Disciples grow as God leads them in the footsteps of Jesus. It is a journey in faith.
Recently several small group ministry opportunities have begun to grow at Bethlehem following a leadership training seminar. You will hear more about how you can become involved in groups as we progress through the coming months. But I want to take this opportunity to point out two that will begin very soon.
On Tuesday, November 24, at 10:00 a.m., “Coffee, Tea & Thou” will begin as an Advent devotional and discussion time. This was initiated and will be led by Margo Woodruff. A little later on Tuesday, November 24, from 12:15 to 12:45, a different devotional and discussion group will begin that is especially focused on working people’s lunch time. It is called “Lunchtime Faith” and was initiated by leaders Jen McQuiston and Jessie Goodwin. Both Advent series will run on Tuesdays through December 22.
If you are available Tuesday mornings or if you would like to bring your lunch and grow together, please save the dates for Advent Tuesdays at the church. More information about these groups and an opportunity to preregister will be coming soon.
We are approaching our busiest season here at Bethlehem UMC. There are lots of activities that involve giving and serving: packing beans and rice this Sunday, packing boxes of food for Share the Feast, packing shoe boxes for international children in Operation Christmas Child, Angel Tree and Room In The Inn.
I encourage you to also set aside priority time to participate in activities in which you can receive nourishment for your growth: Advent worship, growth with small groups, Sunday School class activities. These all help us along our journey of discipleship.
Terry Carty