Grace Community Church
Developing Bibically Grounded Followers of Christ
Touch of Grace
A few weeks ago, Carolyn and I had the privilege of visiting the Community Life Group led and hosted by Craig and Megan Duerksen.
The group meets weekly on Sunday evening at the Duerksen’s home. Eleven adults and a host of kids arrive at 6:30pm. After refreshments, kids disappear upstairs and the adults study. The last 15-20 minutes are reserved for sharing and prayer. Prayer requests, and praises are sent by email as reminders to pray.
On the occasion of our visit, they responded to our questions about the distinctive elements of their unique Community Life group.
Study - To date, they have studied Knowing God, by Packer, viewed topical videos, and decided to do a study by the Navigators. Knowing God proved to be a challenging study. One person shared, “Since this was the first time I had the chance to ask questions and not feel uncomfortable with what I asked, I thought the book was complicated for me…(but) I learned a lot from this book.” Another person shared, “I learned twice as much than if I had read it (Knowing God) on my own.”
Fellowship - Sample comments about the value of fellowship include, “I enjoy being in a group,” and “...nothing I enjoy more...than hanging out with adults my age.” Two admittedly “shy and quiet” guys said, “These people are some of the most loving and caring people I know...I find that being around friends like these I can feel at ease and close to the Lord.”
Prayer and Care - This group has an active life. They have helped each other with moves, cleaning, and meals. Several summed up their feelings by saying, “It’s wonderful to know they will step up if a need is there.”
Equipping for Ministry - They provided a meal for the Homeless Shelter as well as ministering to each other’s needs. As one states, “...we are equipping each person in the group to be able to minister to others” as they complete studies together each week.
Terms of Commitment (1 year) - They agree that a group commitment of one year at a time is a good idea, though they recognize that it can take longer to achieve depth in relationships. One member observed that after seven years with a “lovely group of friends” in a previous church, it became a clique, and they might have served better as leaders to four new groups.
Expectations for a Community Life Group - “I enjoy the laid-back atmosphere…” and “...a group of friends/family to share everyday living, growth and spiritual enrichment with; to keep you accountable.”
Final thoughts - Thanks to you, Craig, Megan, and members of this Community Life group, for sharing your time and candid responses with me. After spending time with you and re-reading your written thoughts, I am the one blessed. May God continue to enrich your lives together!
By Rich Dewey
A note from the Editor: These are just some components of one group’s profile and not requirements. Groups vary greatly & have different goals but are alive, fluctuate, & adjust to each group’s individual needs.
If you are unfamiliar with or are looking for a group you fit in with please contact Adam Utecht at: adamutecht@gcc-online.org
Want to share about your group? Send the office your 200 word article and a picture by May 16!