Intentionally Developing Our Faith

Sometimes the Holy Spirit gives us a vision of where He is headed, and I say, “Well, its going to take more than me to get there, God.” I have been trying to do that when it comes to small groups. Before I even moved to LaFontaine, I heard that intentional spiritual development was something that n

eeded to happen here. And since we changed worship to before Sunday school, I have seen the hunger of 40 years worth of adults for connection. They stand in the foyer and in the pews after worship. But how do we move them to a classroom?

               In the last couple of weeks, God revealed that I am not the only one seeing this. A note was left on my desk of 20 people who a parishioner saw the need for spiritual growth in. Another gentlemen offered to teach Sunday School class. One of those numbered offered a cookout kickoff. All of this happened a week after I wrote a goal to get 80% of our attendees into some kind of small group this summer, whether it be on Sunday morning or during the week. It wasn’t because I wrote that. I know this, because when I mention it, I get blank stares. It could only be the Spirit of God moving among us.

               Lots of well established groups take summers off, so I know that what we are trying may not work. We may have to start all over this fall. But when the Spirit moves, He calls us to move in His timing, regardless of what is “normal.”

               So on June 14^th, Lori Brane will be hosting a cookout during the Sunday School hour for anyone and everyone who isn’t part of a Sunday School class or Bible Study…or even if you are but would like to support a new group. It will be an informal time to connect and talk about what would be the best time and place to start some groups focused on intentional faith development…to talk about any hurdles we may need to work around (or move). While we are especially encouraging adults 20-60, THERE IS NO AGE LIMIT for you to come.

               I know God has been working on hearts. And if he has been working on hearts of those outside of 20-60 year-olds, I have a feeling he may be working on the hearts of those in that age group as well, telling us we need to connect and support each other, and to be intentional about growing in our faith through participating in a small group. If you are one of those people, start praying. Start thinking of what keeps you from being in a small group. Start thinking about how you could fit a small group into your life. Start thinking about who you would want in your small group. Most of all, plan to join us on June 14^th. We can’t help you without you showing up.