Most McElwain small groups meet on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m., in homes. Nursery and children’s activities are provided at the church from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Some groups have changed their meeting day and time based on what is best for the group.
If you are interested in joining a small group, please call the church office at 956-0388.
Fall semester, small groups meet for ten weeks. Winter semester, small groups meet for ten weeks. During the summer, small groups take a break from formal meetings, but still get together for fellowship times.
Becoming a part of a small group will be a great enrichment to your life. Here’s how:
You will understand the Bible better
Many times in Bible study, it is hard to interrupt and ask questions. However, in small group, it is easy to ask questions so that you can best understand what God desires. Personal application of God’s Word is so important. Through the small group process, individuals learn to live out His Word and encourage one another in the process.
You will begin to really feel a part of God’s family at McElwain
Many people attend church and never develop meaningful relationships with others. Small group members say that the greatest benefit of being a part of a small group is the close relationships and friendships that develop. Individuals discover that his needs and problems are not unique because many others are going through the same difficulties, or have lived through them and learned in the process.
The Bible teaches that we are to love one another, encourage on another, pray for one another, accept one another, bear one another’s burdens, and build up one another. The best way this can happen is to be involved in the lives of others. The most significant way this can happen is in small group. We really do need one another.
You will be able to handle stress and pressure better
When you have a small cluster of intimate relationships, you begin to share more of yourselves with one another. This time provides excellent support in times of crisis, change, and stress. There is a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you.
When there is illness, loss of job, help with family issues, or other practical needs, the small group is there to help out. Whether it’s a hot meal, someone’s time and/or skills, or a hug that is needed, small group members support one another. Many McElwain members can share the support that they have received in times of need.
You will develop leadership skills you never knew you had
We know that God gives each of his children specific gifts to benefit His family. Most Christians, however, only remain spectators at church and never use the gifts given to them. As you share in small group, you will discover a confidence in yourself and be encouraged to use the gifts God has given you to fulfill a role within the body of Christ.
Prayer will become more meaningful to you
Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others. In a small group of six to twelve people, you will have the opportunity to pray. Nobody is pressured, but as you become comfortable, you’ll be able to pray word prayers and/or sentence prayers to join in. In praying together with a few people, we are drawn together and find the answers that we need for our lives.
If you are interested in joining a small group, please call the church office at 956-0388. We will answer your questions and make sure you are placed in a group.
