A few weeks ago at West Ridge Church a lady made a really innocent comment to me. She was trying to be nice, but there was just a hint of frustration. She was talking about how much she loved the church, the worship music, the friendly atmosphere, the teaching (ok, she only mentioned Brian’s teaching and not any other communicators, but we know what she meant). After buttering me up, she smiled, shook her head and said, “I just don’t know how to get plugged in to a church of 10,000″.
Here’s the honest truth; we are not a church of 10,000. If someone doesn’t feel connected it doesn’t matter what size the church is. A church of 100 can easily feel like a church with a ton more if there is an inwardly focused mindset or not a clear path to getting connected. I’ve been invited to speak at small churches, and felt like I just interrupted a meeting with all the cool kids, and I should strongly consider stepping away and just act natural.
At West Ridge it is our desire to grow larger and smaller at the same time. How do we do this? For us the answer is small groups. A small group is an opportunity for people to connect with just a handful of other people at a time who are going through about the same stage of life. It is the opportunity to build relationships with other people who are also trying to become fully devoted followers of Jesus. In Group life you learn more about the Bible as you study together, but more than anything you get the opportunity for someone else to ‘have your back’, and you get to have theirs.
Groups are not for perfect people, or just social butterflies. They come in all shapes and sizes: Men’s,Women’s, Married Couples, Singles, Bible Studies, Care and Recovery, and I’m sure there’s more.
So you may be smiling and shaking your head thinking, but how do I find one of those?
This Sunday at each of the three locations of West Ridge Church we are having an event called, Group Link. It’s a no pressure opportunity for you to come and have lunch, and consider getting into (or back into) a small group. That’s all you do. One step. That’s a pretty clear path.
This is our attempt as a church to make sure that no one is left behind. If you are not in a group at the moment, you need to come check this out.
Go here and let us know that you are coming so that we can be ready to host and feed you.
Join us for Group Link!
Everyone Belongs,
Paul





