Our Small Group Ministry is a primary area of growth at First Church. We feel that our personal and spiritual relationships are enhanced by the sharing our our stories and our lives. Small Group Ministry promotes a sense of community and support among our members. Some small groups are ongoing and some are short term opportunities. Some are primarily study groups, and others are activity oriented. Call the church office to inquire about groups that are currently meeting. A sample offering might include:
Small Groups for Growth and Study Coming this Fall 2005:
Do you remember Jack Benny? Do you enjoy good food and fellowship with other who might be retired from one or two jobs that put food on the table from 25 years or more? Do you have hobbies you'd like to tell about, travel experiences to share? Not ready to just sit at home and dwell on misfortunes in your life?
The 39'ers were treated to a picture-perfect day as participants in a potluck at the home of gracious hosts and master gardeners, The noon potluck proved once again what excellent cooks we have in our midst. Jane H. has some pictures of the event which she is willing to share with you. After lunch some strolled the beautiful grounds admiring the extensive flower plantings, some took pictures, some got to taste the unusual yellow raspberries. Many spent time admiring the railroad train set-up which Wayne had just recently completed (quite enlarged from last year's). Others sat and visited under the colorful umbrellas which shaded several picnic tables, or on lawn chairs generously placed in shady places. A stiff breeze joined us at time, ruffling some hairdos, blowing a few napkins or unattended paper plated onto someone's lap, but I didn't notice any wigs or other body parts being blown about. We sang "Happy Birthday" to one of the tireless workers of the group. We even allowed an almost 50 year-old to join us as he was just in town for a day or two to visit his mother.
At another meeting we were entertained after the catered meal in our church dining room by our musically talented Al B. and his sister, the pianist (extra-ordinare). What a joy to hear some of our old-time favorite pieces! Al and his sister were scheduled to share their musical talents at the Indiana State Fair. Some of us sang along and no one critiqued the sound! Even our beloved, vacationing Anne Girton joined us that day for fellowship and she knew many of the tunes also. What a privilege it is to enjoy a meal, visit with friends, and be entertained all for $6.00. No parking fee either. Many who are not yet computer-connected heard the "Keep Your Fork" story for the first time.
39'ers have been kept up-to-date on what's going on in the world in so many areas, including health discoveries, community projects, senior citizens benefits, etc. Usually a very reasonable priced catered dinner is provided each month with an occasional potluck and a 'special' Christmas dinner and program at an outside restaurant or club.
Hope more of you join us for other monthly meetings in the future. Evelyn W., as newly elected President, and other officers are doing a good job of organizing interesting programs. Briefly we have fun, good food, interesting programs, try to care for each other in times of illness, an active arm of the church. COME JOIN US!
More about Who: After many methods of communication the following people were persuaded to accept positions of leadership.
President — Evelyn Allen W.
Vice President — Mary Jane K.
Treasurer — Catherine R.
Chief Order Cooks — Al & Leona B.
Chief of Clean-Up — Max & Grace T. (more volunteers needed for this job)
Devotions or Words of Inspiration — Marion W.
Membership Secretary — Martha J.
Calling Committee — Ruth A.
Check bulletins or call the church office for info concerning up-coming programs and do come join us!
Marion W.
What happens at a Walk to Emmaus? The Walk to Emmaus experience begins as a seventy-two hour retreat for a short course in Christianity, comprised of talks by laity and clergy all wrapped together in an atmosphere of worship, reflection, fellowship, and beautiful surprises. Over the years I have seen the impact of the Walk in the lives of hundreds and hundreds of laypersons. I have been particularly impressed with the witness of men and women who for the first time in their lives really experience the reality of the living Christ and the power of the caring community. Contact the church office if you'd like to join the Emmaus Walk.
Joe. E. Harding
Director of Growth Plus Ministry
Hammond First United Methodist Church Parlor
Wednesdays, 10:30 am
The Women's Study Group chooses its studies from a variety of books. Please join us in the parlor for a short-term study! Contact Dale A. or the church office for additional information.
Wordsmiths is a writers' group which meets monthly for the sharing of personal essays, poems & short stories. Their most recent endeavors are available in booklet form in the church office.
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