How will House to House effect the youth ministry?
It won't. The MSY and HSY will continue to meet on Wednesday evenings at 6:45pm. We do encourage our young men and women to join a House to House group in addition to youth specific meetings.
What about kids?
House to House groups with children should treat the kids like people. Let them be around. When the weather is nice, groups can meet on porches and watch the kids play while they chat. Set up a play room in the house where they can play. You can arrange for someone to watch the kids at the house if you prefer; but you're encouraged to be relaxed about children during these gatherings.
How will House to House effect our current Wednesday evening gathering?
The current Wednesday evening gathering will continue to meet at 6pm in the fellowship hall. It will be viewed as another House to House group. Those who choose this option are free to decide together if they would like to invite speakers or discuss the sermon; have a potluck meal or light refreshments. Nothing will change unless those who attend choose to.
How we people know which House to House group to join?
Host homes and meeting times will be communicated as they are established. Each person is free to pick which group they would like to attend based on their location and schedule. It's recommended that you attend a group near your home so it won't become burdensome.
Must each group discuss the scriptures preached Sundays using the discussion guide provided in the bulletin?
No. Each group is free to proceed as they desire (so long as they aren't sacrificing goats or other crazy stuff). However, Pastor Matt strongly encourages groups to discuss the scriptures he preaches on Sunday so we can be careful to apply what we're learning, rather than becoming hearers only.
Should groups share a meal each week?
We encourage groups to pick someone to provide light refreshments rather than a whole meal to keep the workload down. We want this to be something refreshing that members can look forward to, rather than another thing they have to prepare for each week.
How do I know if I should host a group?
Are you gifted in hospitality? Do you love making people feel welcome and comfortable? Do you have a home that is accessible to a group of up to a dozen people? Keep in mind that host homes do not have to be immaculate mansions, just spaces suitable for folks to sit around a den (or wherever) and chat over a cup of coffee. You don't have to go all HGTV, just tidy up a bit and fling those door open!
What if House to House causes cliques?!?!
Only two things can stop cliques from forming in a church: isolation and the Holy Spirit. We can have a church free from cliques if we only relate to each other superficially on Sunday mornings and never develop true, deep fellowship. OR, we can submit our hearts to God and grow together in love and humility, trusting the Holy Spirit to bring about deep fellowship without nasty cliques. Let's risk cliques in hope of fellowship.
Another thing to consider, sometimes what we refer to as a clique is just intimate friendship, which is a really good thing.
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