St. Andrew Lutheran Church

Growth Groups

What is a Growth Group?

A Growth Group is a small group of St. Andrew members that meet together weekly at church, in homes, at various locations in the community, or online. Growth Groups study God's Word together in many different ways. Some groups read and discuss a book that is relevant and helpful to the Christian life. Other groups use learning activities to draw more from the message heard in church. Still other groups focus on a book of the Bible. Growth Groups pray together and serve together to strengthen their commitment to one another and to the Lord.

A typical Growth Group at St. Andrew consists of 12 people, sometimes more, sometimes less. Growth Groups sessions last anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the group. A typical Growth Group stays together for 8 to 14 weeks. Although sometimes groups stay together indefinitely.

There are three Growth Group sessions each year. These sessions begin in January, June, and September. Each session offers different days, times, and places to consider.

This time spent with God's Word and God's people is time well spent.

Why Join a Growth Group?

• Growth Groups allow you to encourage others in their faith.
• Growth Groups offer you accountability to nurture your faith and live to the glory of God.
• Growth Groups are a Christ-centered support system during difficult times.

What are people saying about Growth Groups?

"I was hesitant to join a Growth Group at first fearing that it would be a huge time commitment. Instead, it became one of the highlights of my week. Growth Groups help me prioritize God's Word and connect me to other church members. I really enjoy them." — Amy

"Being a part of a Growth Group helps me stay connected to other Christians. My Growth Groups are how I have built some great Christian friendships. We have been through some very tough times together and that is such a blessing." — Ron

"Studying God's Word through Growth Groups helps me prioritize the most important person in my life, Jesus. When picking a Growth Group, I look for a time and location that works for me. I know I am going to learn a lot no matter what the topic is." — Shelly

"We join Growth groups because we enjoy the fellowship they provide and the different points of view help us get deeper into God's word. We often look for topics that are current in our daily lives, books of the Bible we haven't studied recently, or subjects that we need a refresher on." — Kevin and Caryn

Common Objections to Joining a Growth Group

Growth Groups are a wonderful blessing at St. Andrew and there are many reasons to join one. However, you may have a valid reason that is keeping you from joining a Growth Group. Here is some encouragement:

"I won't be able to make every session."

If perfect attendance was required, we would have no Growth Groups. While we want you to make a commitment to the group, there are reasons that people occasionally are gone for a week or more. Don't let that be the reason you don't join a group.

"I don't have time for a Growth Group."

Your faith is precious. Do not take it for granted. Feeding it is essential. Helping others feed their faith is just as essential. Make time in the Word with others a priority. The more you study God's Word, the more you will love God's Word. That's how the Spirit works.

"My last experience with a Growth Group was not a good one."

We are sorry about that. Remember there is so much power in spending time with God's Word and God's people that Satan is actively trying to keep you away from them. Don't let him keep you on the sidelines. Try again. Pray that this time it's different.

"I don't know the Bible well enough to join a Growth Group."

That is understandable to think that way. Consider this: wanting to learn more about the Bible is the only "requirement" of a Growth Group. Growth Groups are safe and effective places to learn more and all levels of Bible understanding are welcome. Our groups typically have some new to the Bible, some new to in-depth Bible study, and some with acquired Bible wisdom to share.

"I am interested in knowing more about a St. Andrew Growth Group before I sign up."

Talk to Mr. KJ. He will help you better understand Growth Groups. Or better than that, find someone who attends and ask them to tell you about their experience.