Small Group Ministry at Mount Vernon

Koinonia (coin-o-NEE-ah) is the Greek word in the New Testament translated variously as community, fellowship, communion, participation. It is also the name of our small group ministry at Mount Vernon.

Koinonia offers Christian community so that we may find connection with others in small groups for the purpose of growing in Christ, loving and supporting one another, and building up the body of Christ – all for the glory of God. See our current schedule which offers opportunities for:

Fellowship

Groups include informal conversation and refreshments. Members usually check-in with one another about what's going on in their lives.

"Our group had an atmosphere of warmth, friendliness, and sincere caring. "

"None of my extended family lives close by, so my church family is very important to me. Koinonia groups are the best way to form a family-like support system with loving, caring, accepting people. "

Bible Study

A Koinonia group is for those wanting to grow and together discover what the Bible has to say. It is not for Bible experts. It is a place where people learn as they express their discoveries. One person's insight will sharpen another's.

The format of the Bible study is inductive-a facilitator asks questions that lead the group to a deeper understanding of a text. He or she does not lecture but moderates discussion.

"In our group, everybody had an opportunity to voice an opinion. "

"Small groups encourage closer bonds, and it is easier to express ideas in more depth. "

Prayer

One of the most powerful aspects of the small group experience is sharing prayer concerns and praying together. As groups develop trust they bond in very intimate ways through sharing, support, prayer, and rejoicing in answered prayer. No one is forced to pray, but there is opportunity to grow in knowledge and experience of prayer.

 "The group I am in has no problem sharing, praying, and laughing together. "

 "Sharing our joys and concerns, and praying for one another, creates bonds of trust, love, and compassion. "

Mission
It is beneficial for groups to have a mission beyond themselves. This mission might be one of contributing to a cause through donations of money, time, or skill. A meditation garden at the church was the mission project of a spring 2006 Koinonia group.

"Our group collects money each week to send to a needy person twice a year. It always arrives when there is the greatest need. Our recipient sends us her thanks and blessings. "

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who? Any adult member, visitor, or friend may participate. Groups vary in size from 6 to 16. Some groups are all men or all women and others, coed. You do not need to be a Bible scholar - novices are welcome!

What Topics? A range of topics from sermon series with study guides to popular Christian literature to basic scripture study provides the basis for discussion.

When? Groups form in the fall, winter, and spring and meet for six to eight weeks for an hour and a half on various days and times. You may join a group already in progress.

Where? Groups meet at church or in homes.

Cost? There is no charge to attend a group. Depending on curriculum studies and mission project undertaken, members may be asked to contribute.

For information about Koinonia, contact Ron Gilreath, 404-255-2211, ext. 225.