We want people to develop meaningful, Jesus-centred relationships. Life Groups and Focus Groups are two of the ways we aim to cultivate these connections.

A Life Group is a small gathering of believers that regularly meet for longterm, Jesus-centred, group discipleship. Although each Life Group is unique, we all aim to follow the pattern of the early church, devoting ourselves to the apostles teaching, the fellowship, the breaking of bread, and the prayers (Acts 2:41-47). These four practices shape each of our groups.

“The apostles teaching” comes to us today in the form of the Scriptures. We take to heart that the Bible was written to be read in community. One way or another, we open up God’s Word together and we let it shape our thoughts, renew our hearts, guide the work of our hands, call us to repentance, build us up, root us in Jesus, and remind us of the Gospel. In other words, we set apart time to let Scripture dwell in us richly.

“The fellowship” can be defined simply as honest, reciprocal, and close relationship. We share our lives, our joys, sorrows, needs, care, spiritual gifts, homes, stories, and attention. Put differently, it’s about sharing Jesus together in everything. It is our conviction that faith is not meant to be done alone and genuine involvement in each other’s lives cultivates love, growth, and perseverance.

“The breaking of bread” reminds us of our unity in Christ. We sit at the same table, whether we’re eating meals or snacks, sipping drinks, or sharing the Lord’s Supper. These practices remind us that we are one in Christ. Additionally, just as food is a regular part of life, we aim to meet together regularly and in our homes. This also means hospitality is a consistent part of our gatherings, so we purposely serve and care for each other’s needs.

“The prayers” refers to our turning toward God often and in various ways, through praise, thanksgiving, confession, requests, and intercession. When we get together, we cannot simply look to each other; we must look to the Lord. We take it seriously that we can do nothing apart from Jesus. Regular prayer reminds us of this dependence and helps us submit ourselves to God together.

We’re in the process of developing more Life Groups. If you are interested in leading or participating in a Life Group please contact Colton (colton@thecalvarywebsite.com)