One of the primary ways we build relationships and cultivate fellowship with each other here is through a network of small groups—what we call “LIFE Groups.”   While we are joined to all believers in the local church, LIFE Groups allow us to relate more deeply with a smaller number of people. At Grace PCA Church, we believe that LIFE Groups are the only way that busy people can grow into the men and women that Christ created them to be.

The value of the small group is that it can become a community of related persons, and in it the benefit of relatedness cannot be missed nor its challenge evaded. I do not think it is an exaggeration to say, therefore, that small groups… are indispensable for our growth into spiritual maturity.  — John Stott

Purpose

1.  Application of God’s word to our lives.

Merely hearing God’s word is insufficient; we must apply it to our lives for there to be fruit. LIFE Groups enable us to do this together. We seek to apply the Bible’s teaching primarily through discussing and interacting over questions related to Sunday's messages with the intention of growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2.  Pursuit of biblical fellowship.

Genuine fellowship isn’t practical in a large crowd. LIFE Groups provide a place where we can build intimate relationships, care for one another, and help each other grow in our relationship with God.

3.  Ministry to one another.

God has made us dependent on each other, and LIFE Groups provide a context where we can minister to each other with the gifts that God has given us. Meetings often include times of prayer for one another and opportunities for individuals to exercise spiritual gifts for the edification of others.

Participation

Membership at Grace PCA Church involves active participation in a LIFE Group. Those who are new to the church can attend Taste of Grace and Grace Connection and begin connecting with the pastor and church leaders along with the beliefs and values of the church.  Grace Connection is a great place to ask questions and get to know others who are exploring whether to make Grace their church home. After completing Grace Connection, participants have an interview with church leaders and are then placed in a LIFE Group.
Responsibilities

Each member is important to the group and should seek to contribute to the group’s health and success. We each have the responsibility in our group to:

1.  Faithfully attend meetings and functions.

We’re much more likely to benefit if we are actually present!

2.  Willingly participate.

Come ready to contribute, to serve, to share, and to open yourself to others. When the group has an assignment, diligently complete it. Both you and others will benefit from your participation.

3.  Build relationships with other members outside the meeting.

Don’t confine your investment to the LIFE Group meeting—let this be the springboard to rich, enduring relationships.