The life long journey of Christian discipleship (our efforts to live a life in response to God's saving work in Jesus Christ) is an exciting but arduous one. It is a journey best not traveled alone. In fact, it is one that cannot be successfully traveled alone. Fortunately there is a process of accountability, encouragement and support that is inherent in whom we are as United Methodist. This process is found in the availability of others who are on the journey too and realize the value of gathering regularly for conversation, teaching, accountability and nurture. The Methodist term for this process is Christian conferencing and one of the names you might hear at North Naples is LIFT Groups (Life In Faith Together).
The valuing of a small group can be recognized as we overhear Jesus calling a small group of disciples together to journey with Him for the balance of His life and beyond. John Wesley, the father of Methodism, discovered that discipleship was best sustained, nurtured, and deepened through the gathering of small, intimate groups of people in what he called "classes" and "bands".
Here at North Naples United Methodist Church, we recognize those small groups are part of our DNA. And, while we do not assign members to classes like Wesley did in his day, we would like to encourage everyone to become a part of a faith or study group. If you are not currently a member of a small group but would like to explore how participation can enhance your discipleship journey, please complete the on-line form on this blog site or contact Ed Ritter at 593-7600 ext. #269 or E-mail at edr@nnumc.org. May God bless you richly.
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