Care-group Ministry at Christ Church

Jesus Christ chose to focus a major part of His ministry on a small group of 12 men, who in turn multiplied to reach the world. The small group, meeting in people's homes, was the basic unit of the church's life during the first two centuries.

Consistent with this tradition c-groups (care-groups) are designed to make a significant contribution to the spiritual vitality of our church family. They offer opportunities for fellowship, growth in Bible or spiritual study, prayer, service and outreach. The benefit of c-groups is deemed so helpful in the life of the growing Christian that everyone at Christ Church is urged to seriously consider being an active member of a group.

What Is a C-group?

The purpose of a C-group:
A c-group is to be a caring community of 6-12 people who, as followers of Christ, commit to meet regularly two times a month, September through May. C-groups meet on two year cycles. We encourage one another in:

• Expressing heartfelt worship
• Learning from God's Word
• Extending genuine love to one another
• Being a witness in God's kingdom

Components of a C-group Meeting

The meeting lasts between two to two and a half hours and includes:

• Social time individuals get to how and love each other
• Bible or book study based on discussion format: All are encouraged to participate and all take turns leading
• Prayer encourages individuals to share prayer requests and pray for each other

Additionally, most c-groups schedule special social events to allow more casual times of fellowship which offer an opportunity to involve whole families. These social events range from a barbecue, watching and discussing a video to cross country skiing together.

The Service Element of a C-group

All C-groups work to support one another in very practical and tangible ways. Some examples are: Providing meals to a new mother, helping someone move, sponsoring a baby shower, or providing practical help during times of illness. Many c-groups have also served the church through planning social events, organizing church receptions, sponsoring a church missionary, or praying for a particular ministry of the church.

The Threefold Strength of C-groups

• Duration In an age of weakening relationships, C-groups are ideal environments for cultivating long-term friendships.
• Assimilation C-groups are key relational structures for welcoming and involving new attenders in our church throughout the year.
• Multiplication C-groups identify and encourage qualified members to leadership positions in our church.

If a c-group sounds right for you, please fill out an information card available at the welcome center in the church narthex.