SMALL GROUP MINISTRIES

SPRING 2009

February 8 – May 2, 2009

CATALOG OF GROUP OFFERINGS

STUDY GROUPS

While the primary purpose of these groups is study,

you can expect to share in times of worship, caring for one another,

and participating in some form of outwardly focused ministry.

Sunday Morning

S – 1

9:45 am FUMC room 2 facilitated by Terri Foster

LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY

Using study questions provided by Pastor Tom Telfer, this group will examine the Lection passage he has just (at 8:30) or will (at 11) preach from. This will not be a “sermon critique,” but an opportunity to study along with Pastor Tom and in the light of what he heard God speaking for us from the chosen passage.

Child-care is available in the nursery, and the Power Xpress classes for children K-6 th grade meet at this hour.

S - 2

9:45am Church Lounge facilitated by Dan Anderson

THE BOOK OF GENESIS

This is a continued series of videoed lectures from Rutgers University professor Gary A. Rendsburg. Trish and I especially appreciate the leadership Dan brings to our discussion. This group meets after the 8:30 and before the 11 o-clock services, when premier professional child-care is available, as well as Power Xpress classes for children K-6 th grade.

S – 3

11 am FUMC room 2 facilitated by Liz Gerdes

LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY

Using study questions provided by Pastor Tom Telfer, this group will examine the Lection passage he has just preached from. This will not be a “sermon critique” but an opportunity to study along with Pastor Tom and in the light of what he heard God speaking for us from the chosen passage.

Child-care is available in the nursery, with the Power Xpress classes for children K-6 th grade as well as the youth group for grades 7 and above meet at this hour.

S – 4

11am Church Lounge facilitated by Jennifer Whorton

40 DAYS OF LOVE

Jesus once said that of all the commands in the Bible, two are most important: “…love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself.” In this video – based study, Rick Warren teaches that learning to love God and others is to be our highest goal and our constant focus. The more we learn how to love authentically, the more we become like Jesus. Join us in the Lounge at 11:00 a.m. and be part of the fellowship of love.

Sunday Night

S – 5

7 – 8:30pm FUMC room 2 facilitated by David Rumph

INVITATION TO JOHN: A Short–term Disciple Bible Study

In the very first chapter of John’s Gospel, Jesus issues two invitations: “Come and see,” and “Follow me.” This “short-term” (eleven week) Disciple Bible Study will allow us to accept both of His invitations – to come and see this Jesus, and to consider again, what it means to be His followers.

Monday Night

S – 6

6:30pm at Judy Romans’ facilitated by Tom Norton and Nancy Harries

LECTIONARY BIBLE STUDY

This group will use study questions provided by Pastor Tom Telfer to look closely at the passage he has chosen for preaching. This will not be a “sermon critique” but an opportunity to study along with Pastor Tom, and in the light of what he heard God speaking for us from the chosen passage.

I am happy to make this group available again. I know this is a different night, but I expect it to fill quickly, so sign up early for Bible Study at the Romans, led by Tom and Nancy!

AS – 7

7pm at Nona Howard’s facilitated by David Rumph

JOHN WESLEY ON HOLINESS

I am excited to offer this opportunity for a close look at A Plain Account of Christian Perfection by John Wesley. What does it mean to be holy? Was Jesus serious when He insisted: “… you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect?” (Mt. 5.48) Is it possible for humans to live sin free lives? Wesley answers: “Has He not taught us to pray, ‘Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven?’ And is it not done perfectly in heaven?”

We will limit the size of this group to 20 people, so don’t be slow to sign up if you are interested in John Wesley’s thoughts on holiness and Christian perfection, examined in the comfort of Nona’s hospitality.

Tuesday Afternoon

S – 8

4pm at Mary Mitchell’s facilitated by Wendy Anderson

PROPHETS OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

Wendy is facilitating a self-guided study of an Old Testament prophet chosen by the group. This is a seldom studied area of the Bible, and has proven to be a productive time of reading, discussion, and fellowship.

Wednesday Afternoon

S – 9

2-3:30pm Church Lounge facilitated by Heather Culp

WISDOM FOR TODAY’S WOMAN: Insights From Esther

Women in today's world face an onslaught of ever-changing challenges and circumstances. It's often hard to know how to respond. But centuries ago, one humble, extraordinary woman stepped into the limelight where she encountered great trials of her own--and became a model of godly living for all women to follow.

As you study the dramatic life of Queen Esther you'll learn vital lessons about choices, personal trials, pride, faith, and control. Join us as we venture into “Wisdom for Today’s Woman, Insights from Esther” starting Wednesday February 11th at 2pm. The group will last for 7 weeks. Books will be handed out at the first meeting. Hope to see you there!

AS – 11

6:30pm Church Lounge facilitated by Pastor Tom Telfer

LENTEN PASTOR’S STUDY: The Cross of Christ and the Doctrine of Atonement Explored

You will be joining the Pastor in exploring the various theological understandings regarding the atoning work of Christ on the cross. This will not be a just show up group but one that requires reading ahead of time. The required book is The Nature of the Atonement Edited by James Beilby and Paul R. Eddy. There will also be recommended readings and possibly another required reading. We will explore the Christus Victor, Penal Substitution, Healing, and Kaleidoscope views. We will be discussing the relative merits and disadvantages of each view. What problem is the atonement solving and why is it a critical issue? I will be preaching/teaching on Sunday mornings through the six weeks of Lent regarding this same subject. For those willing to do the reading and thinking it promises to be a lively group. I can hardly wait! The first session will introduce the course and its outline. There will then be a two week break for reading and prep and then we will hit it full speed. If you cannot make the first session, but want to participate then make sure you contact me so I can get you started.

Friday Morning

S – 12

10 -12 Church Lounge facilitated by Suzanne Henning

HAVING A MARY SPIRIT

Having a Mary Spirit , by JoAnn Weaver, is the sequel to her Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World. Suzanne will take six weeks, beginning Friday, April 3 (and ending May 8) to work through this new book. She has chosen this late starting date so those who might be interested in Heather’s study of Queen Esther (see S - 9 above) can actually sign up for both! Women’s studies from both Old and New Testaments in one semester are yours for the taking.

Please note, two different study groups are marked “AS” (numbers 7 and 11), which denotes “Advanced Studies.” These require more outside preparation for each weeks meeting than the other study offerings.

MINISTRY TEAMS

While the primary purpose of these groups is ministry,

you can expect to share in times of devotion and caring for one

another in ways which lead to spiritual formation.

M - 1 Chancel Choir Team

Wednesdays 5 - 7:30pm Church Sanctuary Francis Lupton

The Chancel Choir rehearses on Wednesday afternoon, and serves in ministry to the 8:30 & 11am worship services on Sunday mornings. We are lucky to have Francis in place, and she warmly invites any who might be feeling led to be part of our choir team.

M - 2 Praise Band Team

Saturdays 9 – 10:30am Church Sanctuary Patti Gallagher

The Praise Band is one of the most vibrant groups in the Church. They rehearse Saturday morning and minister on Sundays at the 9:45 worship service. If you are feeling called to be involved in music ministry, this just might be the group for you.

M - 3 Missions Team

First Tuesday 6:30 – 7:30pm Church Lounge Lisa Holyfield

The Missions Team plans, organizes, and facilitates fundraisers in order to collect monies that are sent near and far to influence the world for Christ. Local as well as national and global missions are supported through the good work of this group. Please consider joining this team and their efforts to be the hands of Jesus in the world today.

M - 4 Random Acts of Kindness Team

1 Wednesday/month 5:30 – 6:30pm Church Lounge Nancy Bahr

“We look for and find opportunities to show and spread the love of Christ in tangible ways around our community.” Missing from this statement is “creative.” The RA of K team has directed a reverse Halloween, which involved going door-to-door giving out energy-saving light bulbs. They created and distributed nearly 100 Bags of Grace over the holidays. There is no telling what they (and you!) will come up with this year. Laurie helped establish this team before she left, and it continues to provide a wonderful opportunity to be creatively involved in local outreach ministry.

M – 5 Habitat for Humanity Team

Felicia Burud

Work through the Fairbanks Chapter of Habitat with a group from this Church, as we help offer a hand up to some of those in our community who can use it the most. Choose to participate in this ministry outreach and Felicia will be in touch with you about meeting times and work day opportunities.

AFFINITY GROUPS

While the primary purpose of these groups is to spend time with other people

with similar interests in a more social setting, you can expect part of your time

together to involve guided efforts to care for one another, to connect with God,

and to work together toward some form of outwardly focused ministry.

A – 1Godly Play for Grown-Ups!

Tuesdays 12:00 noon Godly Play Room Facilitated by Clarice Moore

Why should the kids get to have all the fun?? Join Clarice on Tuesdays from noon-1pm for a Godly Play story and a time of wondering. Bring your lunch, you can feast after our story. Children are welcome, too. This will be a great time to experience some of the stories of Jesus in a new way, think about and play with some of your beliefs, and discover Godly Play for yourself. We’ll begin on Tuesday, Feb. 10, and meet each Tuesday through March 17, in the Godly Play room downstairs.

A – 2Genealogy for the Untrained

Wednesdays 7:00pm Church Lounge Facilitated by John Curtis

Have you ever wondered who your ancestors were? – whether you are descended from saints or scoundrels? Join John for 4 quality lessons on how to dig for your family’s roots. A portable computer is not required, and a” field trip” is planned to the LDS research center here in town.

A – 3Guitar for Beginning and Intermediate Students

Saturdays 10:30am Church Sanctuary Facilitated by Liz and Dave Gerdes

This will be a wonderful opportunity to learn or hone your skills on the guitar. Liz is a gifted instructor, and will lead you toward a musical special offering during Sunday morning worship. This group will be limited to 12 members.

Also, during the same hour Dave Gerdes will be working with those interested in learning how to play the bass guitar. If you have ever been tempted, this is the time to select A – 3, and indicate whether you are interested in 6 string or bass.

A - 4 Craft Group

Mondays 9 – 12 Church Lounge Suzanne Henning

The craft group meets weekly for a time of fellowship (this means a lot of laughing) and crafting. Suzanne invites you to “drop by” anytime between 9 and noon. The doors are open and the hearts are warm around the crafting table. The first Monday of the month is known as “salad day,” and involves a pot luck lunch.

A – 5The Love Dare

Tuesdays 7pm Church Lounge Mary Vogel

Unconditional love is eagerly promised at weddings, but rarely practiced in real life. Featured in the movie Fireproof, TheLove Dare is a 40-day challenge for husbands and wives to understand and practice unconditional love. Whether your marriage is hanging by a thread or healthy and strong, The Love Dare will provide the keys to finding true intimacy and developing a dynamic marriage.

Child-care will be made available here at the Church for those who have a need.

A - 6 Beginning Bell Choir

Tuesdays 4:30 – 5:15pm Church Sanctuary Dianne Coursey

This is an introductory exposure to music and hand bells. Not limited to children, boys and girls age 10 and above (and their parents!) are encouraged to sign up for this chance to work with Dianne. She has room for seven to ten students. The Beginning Bell Choir will have the opportunity to minister to our congregation during morning worship on Mother’s Day, May 10. Rehearsals will begin Tuesday, February 24, and extend past the end of this semester to Tuesday, May 5.

A - 7 United Methodist Men

2 nd Thursday 7am the Bakery Restaurant Keith Sworts

This group involves men gathering once a month with the same interest (or affinity) – BREAKFAST! It is a great time of gathering and solving the world’s problems over a wonderful meal at The Bakery. Sign up and show up!

A - 8 United Methodist Women

3 rd Thursday every other month 1pm Church Lounge Edrie Armstrong

The UMW come together in order to share fellowship and participate in differing forms of outreach ministry. Edrie has led this group in wonderfully kind thoughts and actions in the name of Christ on the behalf of this Church, and you are invited to join in!

A - 9 Parents with Young Children Group

4 th Sunday 4 – 6pm Church Lounge Lisa & Tom Sawyer

Please allow me to encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity Tom and Lisa are providing you to leave your children with the youth of our Church while you meet for a relaxed time of fellowship. I understand the Young at Heart Group ( A – 10) started a few years ago as just such a collection of parents with young children, and look at them now, still getting together for food and each other’s company! This is a great chance to form life-long friendships with other Church folks.

A -10 Young at Heart Group

3 rd Sunday 6 – 7:30pm Church Lounge Darlene Hall

Pot Luck Supper and Fellowship for those retired from the work force. This is not an exclusive “club” of old-timers, but an inviting group of men and women who have raised their families and like sharing time and food with others who have “young hearts.”

A – 11 Ruth Circle

1 st Thursday 10 – 12 noon Rotating Homes Suzanne Henning

This “book club” meets for fellowship over a meal and discussion of a selected book. Sign up for the Ruth Circle and Suzanne will be in touch with book information.

Please prayerfully consider how you will participate in the small group ministry of Fairbanks First United Methodist Church. It is our hope you will find at least one offering in this catalog, which will be both convenient and interesting. Leaders are making preparations and praying for those who will join them for the next several weeks on this section of life’s journey toward Christ-likeness. May you sense and follow God’s leading into the perfect fit for you and the others in your group.