Glen Avon Presbyterian Church

“L.I.F.E. Groups”

Rev. Lon Weaver

Jesus declared, “'I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.'” (John 10:10) Our congregation has entered a period of discernment. To give this period a strong foundation, we are building our work upon Christ's life-giving power through L.I.F.E. groups. These are the elements of L.I.F.E. groups as building blocks of the faith community:

Learning Inspired Following Empowered

LEARNING: People in L.I.F.E. groups will learn more about themselves and will learn more about God and God's purposes for us.

INSPIRED: To be inspired, we pray. Prayer is central to supporting discernment. Prayer for others is key to this, for what we are seeking is God's guidance for how best to share the healing life and message of Christ with others. Prayer includes silent waiting. Prayer includes the spoken word. Prayer in L.I.F.E. groups will cultivate growing comfort in talking to God along with other people.

FOLLOWING: Following Jesus Christ means acting in Christ's name. Some activity will be a part of L.I.F.E. Groups. Everyone will be invited to participate. The activity may often be the primary purpose for being there. The activity may be simply something which the participants enjoy doing. Ultimately, the activity is expanded to be of some concrete benefit to others.

EMPOWERED: L.I.F.E. groups empower their members through a growing bond of trust. This trust is developed through deep and honest conversation. It is conversation that grows in depth over time. Anything shared will be held in confidence, and respect will be given for others as they share whatever is in their hearts and minds.

L.I.F.E. groups have begun to form. If you've not already done so, you can become a member of a L.I.F.E. group. You will have the opportunity to join during Sunday morning worship, or you can contact the church office by phone (724-1604) or e-mail (glenavon@clearwire.net). Join us in this exciting part of our effort to discern the most faithful paths for ministry here!!

Amen.