Page 18 - Winter 2016 Contact Issue 40

Throughout history small groups have played a Our Laser groups also help us to promote spiritual
significant role in the development of the church. In the growth and discipleship in our Christian lives, as the
early church, small groups were not an extension of the study of God’s Word is central to all groups. Often they
church – they were the church. Jesus concentrated his provide encouragement and an opportunity to use and
training efforts on a small group of disciples who would, develop our spiritual gifts in a safe, supportive
in turn, train and teach others. He poured His life into environment.
them and demonstrated practical Christian care in
action. Why not join the 350 High Kirk members already in
Laser groups? Please take some time to look at the list
In High Kirk we call our small groups Laser Groups of all our groups – note that most of our groups are
based on their main aims. As we meet together open to all, but some are for 20s&30s or men or women
regularly, we seek to: only. New groups are started as there is need and as
leadership allows, so please let me know if there is not a
• Love God and each other group to suit you. anne.taylor@highkirk.org.uk
• Learn from scripture
• Serve the Lord by serving one another In recent editions of Contact, we have included
• Reach out to others with the love of Jesus feedback from different group members under the title
‘What does being in your Laser group mean to you?’
Laser groups have a vital role to play in developing This time we feature the groups led by Diane Hayes and
fellowship and care within our congregation, enabling Bryan McKibbin.
us to be responsible to and for one another. In a large
church family like ours, they are the primary way for us Anne Taylor
to both show and receive meaningful pastoral care.
With recent changes to our pastoral structures,
members of each Laser group come under the concern
and nurture of various elders. This is enabling our
elders to spiritually feed and care for those in their
pastorates more effectively.
WHICH

LASER GROUP

ARE YOU

IN?