CARE Groups
7 Reasons to Join A CARE Group
CARE Groups are the Cell Group or Home Group model of the Glyfada Christian Center. They meet generally two times per month, and they constitute the “backbone” of pastoral ministry and outreach in our local church.
1 | You will begin to really feel like part of God΄s family
Most people who have been a part of a CARE Group say the greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships that develop. They will frequently telephone each other during the week to share an urgent prayer request or an exciting answer to your prayers. You΄ll discover that your needs and problems are not unique ~ we’re all in the same boat. It helps to know that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived through them and learned spiritual principles in the process. Over fifty times in the New Testament the phrase “one another” is used to describe our relationship to other believers. We are instructed to love one another, encourage one another, pray for one another, accept one another, bear one another’s burdens, and build up one another. The only way you can obey these commands is in community with one another (a CARE Group)! We really do need each other. God never meant for you to go it alone in the Christian life. If you’re lonely and feeling like you are not connected or cared for then part of the answer to your problem is to join a CARE Group or serving team.
2 | Prayer will become more meaningful to you
Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially in a large church. In a CARE Group, you will learn to participate in prayer by having a conversation together with God. No one is pressured to pray, but as you become comfortable, you΄ll be able to pray sentence prayers and join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to group prayer. In praying together with a few others, we are drawn together and we find answers to the needs in our lives.
3 | You will be able to handle stress and pressure better
CARE Groups provide your primary support in times of crisis, change, and stress. You’ll have a sense of stability and security knowing there are people who really care for you and are committed to standing with you. When someone loses a job, or a family member has an extended illness, or a mother needs a babysitter – these are practical needs that will be naturally taken care of through your CARE Group. Your group will coordinate the sharing of hot meals to be brought in when if your family is in need. Many people in churches throughout the world could testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time if it hadn’t been for the support of their group.
4 | You will have a natural way to share Christ with friends, relatives, and work associates
Most of us have friends who have not crossed the line of faith with Jesus Christ or who wouldn’t be caught dead in a church. They have a preconceived idea about church and Christians and just the thought makes them defensive. But those same people may be open to an invitation to a casual gathering and discussion in a home. In a CARE Group, your unbelieving friend can ask questions and express honest doubts without feeling “put on the spot”. When your friend sees the love and warmth and honesty of your group, it will make him more receptive to the Good News.
5 | You will use your gifts and develop leadership skills you never knew you had!
The Bible teaches that every believer is given certain talents or “gifts” to benefit others in the family of God. Unfortunately most Christians remain as Sunday morning spectators all their lives because large group meetings are primarily “sit and listen” situations. As you share and participate in a relaxed CARE Group setting, you΄ll discover your confidence and self-esteem rising, and when your ready you’ll be willing to step out when the opportunity arises. Developing you leadership skills will help you at work, at church, and in every other relationship.
6 | You will deepen your understanding of worship
Many believers mistakenly feel that worship can only happen on Sunday morning in a large group with a sermon, a worship team, and an offering plate. Worship happens anytime we focus on God. Sometimes that happens best in a smaller group in praying and singing together. Sometimes worship will happen as your CARE Group serves together to help someone in need. Sometimes it will happen as you just have a fun time together.
7 | You will be a New Testament Christian!
The book of Acts is very clear about how God intends for his people to grow and have their needs met in the church. We will never be able to hire enough professional pastors to meet all the individual needs in our family. God never intended for it to be that way!
Consider these verses:
” Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the Good News that Jesus is the Christ.” Acts 5:42
“Greet also the church that meets at their house.” Rom. 16:5
“Aquilla and Priscilla greet you warmly in the Lord and so does the church that meets at their house.” I Cor. 16: 19
“Give my greetings…to Nympha and the church in her house.” Col. 4: 15
Join us!
Call 210 9651346, or Email info@glyfadacc.org