I’m grateful for the ways God is using small groups at Christ Church Ann Arbor to foster care, community, and growth in grace. As we are already well into the new year, I want to share a vision for our small-group ministry.
We envision a church family where our small groups are gospel-centered communities that build one another up in Christ through God’s Word, prayer, fellowship, outreach, and mutual encouragement. We aim to deepen our fellowship with the Lord and with one another, enjoying the grace of belonging while welcoming others into it. By the Spirit’s power, we want our love to be visible and credible—so that “by this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). Sent into our neighborhoods and daily callings, we seek to grow in maturity, serve with joy, and make disciples who reflect Jesus together.
In the coming months, I anticipate visiting our small groups so “that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith” (Romans 1:12). Additionally, I’ll be seeking to facilitate the formation of new groups within the church, and I’d love to speak with anyone interested in helping launch or host a new group.
Finally, I’ll be looking for a few volunteers to share a brief testimony (just a few sentences) about how small-group ministry has benefited your walk with Christ and strengthened your fellowship in the church. I’ll be reaching out about this, but if you would be willing to contribute, please contact me.
If you have questions about getting involved in a small group—or you’re not sure which group might be the best fit—please reach out to me. I’d love to help you take the next step toward getting connected.
By Pastor Chad Burrow
