As the church grows in number, it becomes more important to break into smaller groups in order to practice "one anothering" and to encourage each other to love and good deeds. Our ministry to the adults takes place through these smaller groups, which we refer to as Fellowship Groups. The Elders use the Fellowship Groups as the central vehicle for ministry, discipleship, and counseling (taking place in a one-on-one or small group setting).
These groups provide an environment to go deeper in our relationships with one another in order to encourage, hold accountable, and enjoy one another. The goal is to stimulate one another on to love and good deeds, and to help one another in living out our Christian faith and becoming more like our Savior each day.
Groups are open to all adults. Currently about 70% of adults attending GBC participate in a Fellowship Group. It's through the small groups that deep friendships are established and through these relationships we can practice all the "one anothering" commands of scripture. "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another" (Prov. 27:17). Small groups facilitate the application of this verse and the sanctification process.
Fellowship groups meet on various days and times. Some meet during the week, some on Sunday evenings ... some meet every week, and others meet every other week. They also meet at various locations throughout Midlothian and in the West and North End.
Most groups include a time of worship, prayer, fellowship, and Bible Study. Topics of study vary, as does the format each group uses. Groups will sometimes do service projects together. Each group adopts a missionary and connects with their ministry including short term trips.
Rich Ryan and Dale Outhous coordinate the groups. In addition, there are a number of fellowship group leaders. If you want to get involved with people at Grace, we strongly encouarge you to be involved in a Fellowship Group. For a current listing of Fellowship Groups, click HERE or contact the Church office.
Note: If you are a member or adherent of GBC and you are not able to attend any of the Fellowship Groups that currently meet but you would like to join a group, please click here (you will need a member login to access this page) so that we can know your specific needs. (If you desire information on requirements to access the Members section of the GBC web site, please contact the Church Office here.) Thank you!