Our Wesleyan heritage emphasizes discipleship through small groups. Groups take many forms - Sunday school classes, book and Bible studies, golf league, crafting group - and are for all ages. In them, we celebrate joys, share sorrows, and pray for one another; we study and learn together, encourage and challenge one another. When we talk about getting involved Downtown, small groups are often mentioned first.
Sunday School
Adult Sunday School classes are staying connected. Some are meeting virtually and some in a hybrid format of in-person and virtual. Please complete this form for information on meeting times and locations.
BLT
Leader: Dulaney Wood
BLT (Believers Learning Together) engages in studies intended to help all grow in their walk with Christ, striving to become better Christians in life, work and relationships. Using 6-8 week studies with no out-of-class preparation required, discussion happens around the lessons shared. BLT also enjoys fellowship times outside of class and a yearly trip to Gatlinburg.
Contemporary Issues
Leader: Ross Stinetorf
Contemporary Issues holds true to its name through discussions based on the Bible and current events/issues found in the world. Time for fellowship and prayer lead this class into a study utilizing The Wired Word and what it means to respond in the world as Christians focused on Christ.
The Empty Chair
Leaders: Don Cummings
The Empty Chair class begins "A Six Pack for Fall: Tailgating with the Psalms." The class will offer in-depth study and devotional experiences of six of the most beloved Psalms in the Bible. New class participants are most welcome to join the class as it begins this special, short-term study. The class encourages serious biblical inquiry, discussion, and relationship building peppered with humor and fun along the way. The new study on Psalms will begin Sunday, September 11th.
FISH (Friends in Service to Him)
Leader: Mallory and Matt Wood
FISH is made up of parents with children who enjoy meeting together weekly and at other times throughout the year. Using the Upper Room, the class shares in fellowship, study and prayer together.
Journey
Leader: Keith Cooper
Journey chooses books to read and discuss that encourages discussion on how all fit into the narrative of God’s story and what it means to be disciples in every context. Journey also enjoys monthly fellowship times.
Bible Doing
Leaders: Susan and Todd Nelson
The book of James says we are to not only be hearers but doers of God’s word. This discussion based class seeks to discover truth in God’s word and put it into action. Expect to laugh a lot, share as you are comfortable, and be challenged by God’s word.
Trailblazers
Leader: John Stumbo
Trailblazers use the Bible to study issues common to our lives today by a combination of comments by the teacher and open discussion. Time is always given to building a caring community through time together and prayer.
Leader: Todd Nelson
Rev. Todd Nelson led an online study of Matthew this past Fall (2022). Notes and videos from each week can be found here.
Ongoing Grow Groups
Groups are currently meeting in-person or virtually, and welcoming new members. If you are interested in connecting with or learning more about one of these groups, let us know here.
