...Before the how, and even before the what, I think we need to understand the why. The why, of course, finds its answer in scripture.
In the Old Testament, it was the immediate and extended family units where individuals regularly gathered to read, interact-with, and practice the word of God. Several places in Deuteronomy, including Deut 6:7-9, talk about impressing God’s values and His redemption story, onto the next generation, and to talk about these things in the morning, throughout the day, and in the evening. It was all about the family, learning and growing together.
In the New Testament, the understanding of family grew to include new brothers and sisters in Christ. Like we see in several places in the book of Acts, including Acts 2:43-47, these new members of God’s family would gather regularly in the temple courts and in one another’s homes, to learn and apply God’s word together, and to break bread – share a meal.
Why do we have Catalyst Groups at Community Church? We have them because we see in scripture that God’s people understood themselves to be family; and the family regularly got together in both larger and smaller groups, for worship, teaching, and prayer. They shared food, they shared life, and they shared faith.
So, what are Catalyst Groups?! Catalyst groups are the smaller expressions of gathering together (smaller groups) where believers can grow more closely together in fellowship, accountability, and family. They are designed to focus on God’s Word, relationships, and providing an open & safe environment to share life. No matter where someone is at in their faith journey, the goal is to grow in knowledge, understanding, & obedience in following Jesus.
Catalyst Groups can follow one of three paths: using the Core Seminar curriculum, going through questions developed from the previous weekend’s message, or studying Christian books or books of the bible.
How can you get involved? It’s simple! – you can do that either by directly signing up for a group (https://westbendchurch.org/get-connected/catalyst-groups/) or by sending an email to the church office to let them know you’re interested ( ).
If you have questions about what group might be a good fit, or how to get involved, or even about just meeting some people first, don’t hesitate to ask – I’ll be glad to help! God’s model has always been family, and I’m excited to be a part of the family with you!
