Talking About Groups - Winter 2019
Meet the Estrada Family: Hans Estrada is pictured here with his wife Alicia, son AJ, daughter Jalexci, son Hans Jr aka Dinho. His oldest daughter (not pictured) Arianna is in the Air Force overseas.
What small group are you a part of and how did you become a part of it?
We have been part of several home groups aka small groups. Now this time around we will be hosting one at our house, The Estrada Group.
What is it like being a part of your SMALL group?
Every group we've been a part of has done different and unique things. Some have had icebreakers and others have had worship to begin the group. It typically will begin with a bit of just talking and grabbing a snack as others stroll in. Then we pray and dive into the topic for that week. By the end of the night we have discussed what we gathered from the Bible and Sunday’s message and we all hear different points of view. We finish with prayer requests and a bit more talking before heading out. No one is forced to speak, some just go to listen, and that's ok. Some of the people we have met in groups have ended up being some of our closest friends, others not so much. But we all pray for each other and encourage each other.
What would you say to someone who isn’t in a group yet? What would they gain?
I would encourage them to be a part of one. You gain the views and insights of other people who are trying to be more Jesus-like. Life is always better when you have people who come to care for you. If for nothing else, show up for the snacks, some are more like meals!
Meet Vanessa O’Neill pictured with her two children Gracie and Emmett. Vanessa took a few minutes during her hectic day (after getting the kids down for a nap) to answer a few questions about her Small Group experience. She hopes her answer are helpful and encouraging to others!
What small group are you a part of and how did you become a part of it?
I am a part of the Coelho home group in Warren. The couple who host the group are very good friends of mine, (actually more like family) so I was excited when I learned they had decided to host. They live about 2 minutes away from me so it’s actually quite convenient!
What is it like being a part of your SMALL group?
Our home group meets on Tuesday evenings about 6:30pm. Keith and Michelle Cabral run the group. Keith often starts off with an icebreaker question that usually makes everyone laugh and also helps us to get to know each other better. Then he will ask questions pertaining to Jared’s message from that Sunday and we have an open discussion. It’s always very comfortable and causal. It feels like I’m just hanging with my friends talking about Jesus and diving into Gods word... which is one of my favorite things to do!
What would you say to someone who isn’t in a group yet? What would they gain?
Coming from someone who thought about joining a group for a while but never actually did, I would say to someone considering… you’re truly missing out if you are not in a group! Being part of my first home group has been such a great experience. I’ve gained friendships with people from the church that I had never even met before and sometimes I still don’t see them on Sundays due to the three services. Group gives us a chance to connect, learn and grow from each other. The friends in my home group have become such a great support for me during my crazy week with kids and work and just life really! We have had some great discussions and powerful prayer moments that I am thankful to have with people who I know truly care.