Groupsat Grace

Life Together at Grace Community Church Fall 2016

UP WHY GROUPS?

In his poem, Choruses from the Rock, writer T.S. Elliott asks, “What life have you if you have not life together?”

Life Together.

What comes to mind when you think about that phrase?

For some, being “together” is a frightening proposition. For others, there’s no other way to be.

Regardless of your response, the truth is that all people (you included) have a built-in need for others. You need other people and other people need you.

If life is not experienced together, so much is lost.

Imagine being heartbroken and having no one to comfort you or receiving some wonderful news and having no one to share it with.

God knows our needs and has provided for us, in large part, through each other. The local church is a place where we can be known by name. It’s a place where, through a variety of relationships we can, as the Scriptures say…

“encourage one another” (1 Thess. 4.18) “serve one another” (Gal. 5.13) “show hospitality to one another” (1 Pet. 4.9) “exhort one another” (Heb. 3.13) “confess our sins to one another and pray for one another” (Jms. 5.16) “bear one another’s burdens” (Gal. 6.2) “offend and forgive one another” (Col. 3.13) “stir up one another to love and good works” (Heb. 10.24)

Why groups?

Perhaps a better question is “what life have you if you have not life together?”

If you’re already convinced, I hope that this has served to remind you of your many blessings.

If you need a little more convincing, then I would encourage you to consider the many options in the pages that follow.

You might just find what you didn’t know you needed!

Living for Jesus, together with you,

Pastor Tim

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Sunday SUNDAY 9:30 & Children 11am

9:30am High School

9:30am Middle School

9:30am Breakfast Club

9:30am Connections

11am “His-Story” Class

12:15pm Compassion Ministry Team (2nd Sunday)

12:15pm The Missions Commission (9 Sundays per year)

Sunday MONDAY 7pm High School

Sunday TUESDAY 9:30am Be Fit with Joy

6:30pm Middle School

6:30pm Men’s Bible Study

6:30pm Women’s Bible Study

Sunday WEDNESDAY 9am Women’s Beth

Moore Bible Study (twice monthly)

9:30am Mommy & Me (“Impressions”)

1pm Women’s Missionary Prayer Group (2nd Wednesday)

7pm Women’s Beth Moore Bible Study (twice monthly)

7pm New to Grace

7pm Honeymooners

7pm Home Fellowship Group

7pm Men’s Bible Study

7:30pm College

Sunday THURSDAY 9:30am Be Fit with Joy

5pm G-Kids

6:30pm Christianity Explored

7pm Praying the Psalms of Ascent

7pm Worship Team

7pm Tech Team (A/V)

7:30pm Choir

8pm Parents Online

Sunday FRIDAY 6am Men’s Early

Morning Group

8:30am Women’s Home Bible Study

9:30am Women’s Bible Study

Sunday SATURDAY 7am The Motorcycle

Group

8:00am Young Men’s Group (2nd & 4th Saturday)

8:30am Men’s Breakfast (1st Saturday)

8:30am Young Women’s Breakfast Group (1st & 3rd Saturday)

10am Needleworks (2nd Saturday)

Week at a Glance

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STUDENT GROUPS

CHILDRENLed by Cindy van Beek | cindy@gracesealbeach.org Sundays, 9:30 & 11am services Main building, 3rd floor

Through a loving and faithful group of staff and volunteers, we provide Christ-centered instruction for

children Pre-K through 4th grade.

YOUTHLed by Randi Kisner | randi@gracesealbeach.org High School - Sundays, 9:30am & Mondays, 7-9pm Middle School - Sundays, 9:30am & Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30pm

In addition to our weekly meetings we have regular events, camps, and a full summer schedule. Come check us out.

COLLEGELed by Amanda Buda | acbuda@gmail.com Wednesdays, 7:30pm Church campus, Underground Room

We’re a community of college-aged students who are seeking to live authentic Christian lives. We’d love to

have you join us.

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UP LIFE GROUPS

MEN

Men’s Bible StudyLed by Ed Hull | edatbeach@adelphia.net Tuesdays, 6:30 pm Church campus, Library

We’re committed to developing trust and friendship that allows us to openly share our lives. We all have a

voice in what we study next. Come add yours to the mix.

Men’s Bible Study Led by Preston Barr | presbarr4@gmail.com Wednesdays, 7pm Church campus, Library

We study through a book of the Bible and ask questions about what is being said and how it applies to our lives.

No homework is necessary.

Men’s Early Morning GroupLed by Bob Wissmann | 562.889.2728 Fridays, 6am Hof’s Hut on Bellflower, Long Beach

We’re committed to discipling men to be leaders at home, at work, in the church and in the community.

Before most men have rolled out of bed, we’re already at work. Come and be encouraged.

Men’s Breakfast Led by Scott Batstone, 562.431.4042 & Bob Wissmann, 562.889.2728 1st Saturday of the month, 8:30am Malarkey’s Grill, Alamitos Bay

Would you like to be encouraged in living out the gospel while sharing a great meal and fellowship with other men of Grace? Then come join us once a month to hear some great teaching and testimonies.

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Young Men’s Group Led by Pastor Bob | bob@gracesealbeach.org 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month, 8am Corner Bakery Café (PCH)

Our group is geared toward younger Christian men who are interested in developing as disciples of Jesus. Our

meetings last one hour and each time we share what we’ve been reading from the Bible and how we’re applying it in our relationships.

WOMEN

Women’s Home Bible StudyLed by Kristin Stout | kwolffstout@verizon.net Fridays, 8:30am The Greene home, 4356 Dogwood Ave. Seal Beach, College Park East

Our group is open to all women and is a wonderful place to learn the Bible, grow in prayer, and develop deep friendships with others who are on the same journey.

Women’s Bible StudyLed by Paula Strome | strometeach@aol.com Tuesdays, 6:30pm Church campus, Offshore Room

Our group is great for women who work during the day and are looking for a midweek opportunity to grow

in their faith, get to know other women, and be encouraged. A parallel group is held on Friday mornings. Childcare available with RSVP for kids 0-3.

Mommy & Me (“Impressions”)Led by Lisa Latham | lisa@gracesealbeach.org Wednesdays, 9:30 am Church campus, Fellowship Hall

Join with other moms and grandmas for an hour of Bible stories, crafts and games with the kids, followed by an

hour of adult time (childcare provided) where we can connect and pray for one another. This program is for kids ages 2-5.

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Women’s Missionary Prayer GroupLed by Lisa Latham | lisa@gracesealbeach.org 2nd Wednesday of the month, 1pm Church campus, Coral Room

Join other kingdom-minded women as we pray for the missionaries of our church and denomination, rejoice

as we share the testimonies we hear from them, and encourage them when they’re home. The persecution they often face is real and difficult. They need our prayers. Come pray with us.

Women’s Beth Moore Bible Study (morning)Led by Kathy Wolff | kathylwolff@gmail.com Meets twice a month on Wednesday, 9-11am Leisure World, Seal Beach

Our group, like its evening counterpart, welcomes women of all ages and stages of life to come together

and learn more about God and His great plan.

Women’s Beth Moore Bible Study (evening) Led by Darlene Gray | drdj.gray@verizon.net Meets twice a month on Wednesdays, 7-9 pm The Gray Home, 176 College Park Drive, Seal Beach

Our group, like its morning counterpart, welcomes women of all ages to join in and find their joy in God.

Bring your Bible and a heart to learn.

Women’s Bible StudyLed by Lisa Latham | lisa@gracesealbeach.org Fridays, 9:30am Church campus, Offshore Room

This group is great for moms with kids in school, stay-at-home or retired women, or women with flexible

work schedules who are looking for an opportunity to form authentic relationships and grow in their faith. Childcare available with RSVP for kids 0-3.

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Young Women’s Breakfast GroupLed by Shannon Shondeff shannon.r.shondeff@gmail.com 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month, 8:30am Local breakfast spots

Looking for a group of young women to be honest with and grow together in your relationship with God? Whether you are single, married, do or don’t have kids, we can all learn from one another while growing in our faith. We’d love to have you join us.

CO-ED

The Breakfast Club Led by Matt and Jen Archuleta marchuleta@verizon.net Sundays, 9:30am Church campus, Underground Room

Our group’s goal is to challenge, strengthen and encourage an authentic Christian life through study,

prayer and simply being with one another through life’s joys and pain. It has a family focus, but all are welcome.

ConnectionsLed by Tom Enyart | taenyart@verizon.net Sundays, 9:30 am Church campus, Offshore Room

Connections class is a group of mature family members, single or married, who are strong in God’s word. Come

join our diverse group from ages 20 through 90+ to discuss God’s call-ing for His servants and explore the depths of God’s wisdom for life.

“His-Story” Class Led by Glenn Koons | phillyat72@gmail.com Sundays, 11am Church campus, Offshore Room

Our class focuses on God’s hand and plan throughout history and today. Men and women of all ages and

stages of life are welcome to come share and grow in Jesus.

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Home Fellowship GroupLed by Roger and Kathy Elliott sealbeachlocal@gmail.com Wednesdays, 7pm The Elliott home, 206 11th St., Seal Beach

Want to join a group, but not sure where you fit? This group is filled with all ages and stages of people

and there’s a place for you too! The leadership rotates amongst the participants.

New to Grace (10 sessions)Led by Travis and Karin Greene kwolffgreene@gmail.com Wednesdays, 7-8:30pm, starts September 14th The Greene home, 4356 Dogwood Ave. Seal Beach - College Park East

If you’ve been at Grace under a year (or have never been in a small group), then come and join us to get connected with others. We’ll be working our way through The Gospel-Centered Life. Copies provided.

Honeymooners (10 sessions)Led by the Foxes & the Cullings tim@gracesealbeach.org Wednesdays, 7-9pm starts September 21st Various locations

If you’ve been married 3 years or less, enjoy meeting new people, and would like to stumble forward together with others who are seeking to do marriage well, then this group is for you. Great meals and alternating locations are just the beginning.

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Christianity Explored (7 sessions) Led by Pastor Tim | tim@gracesealbeach.org Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm, starts September 22nd Church campus, Surf Side Chapel

This is an informal and relaxed 7-week course for those who want to think more deeply about the person of

Jesus and the implications of his life and teachings. A delicious meal is included. Bring a friend!

Parents Online (8 sessions) Led by Pastor Bob | bob@gracesealbeach.org Thursdays, 8pm, starts September 22nd Location: your own home

Want to be in a group, still get your little one(s) to bed at a reasonable time and not have to clean your

house or break the bank paying babysitters? Then join us online as we encourage each other in serving Jesus during this stage of life. We will be working through the book The Good and Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith. Also, a couple “in-person” events for the whole family will be planned.

Praying the Psalms of Ascent (8 sessions) Led by Jerry Wiltz | jerry.wiltz@gmail.com Thursdays, 7-8pm, starts September 29th The Wiltz home, 1000 Marvista Ave., Seal Beach

We’ll be working our way through the Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) using Eugene Peterson’s A Long

Obedience in the Same Direction to help. Buy the book and join us.

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UP COMMON INTEREST

Be Fit with Joy Led by Judy Creighton | kreationsb@verizon.net Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30am Church campus, Fellowship Hall

Our class begins with Christian meditation, breathing exercises, stretching and a brief walk. Then we turn to

aerobics and other exercises to get or stay fit. Bring a mat and come make friends. All are welcome.

NeedleworksLed by Barbara Westfall and Janet Haendiges barbquail@hotmail.com 2nd Saturday of the month, 10am Church campus, Coral Room

Our group is for those who knit, quilt, crochet, scrapbook, etc. We’ve had the joy of crafting projects that serve newborns and the homeless in our community. Bring your unfinished projects and your unfinished life.

The Motorcycle GroupLed by Steve Brittain | designmastergraphics@gmail.com Saturdays, 7-9am Church campus

We have a passion for motorcycles and serving God. With a mission to help the community in God’s name,

this is a group that prays together, serves together, and rides together. We’d love to have you join us.

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MINISTRY TEAMS

WORSHIP

ChoirLed by Denice Nossett | dnossett@earthlink.net Thursdays, 7 pm Church campus, Coral Room

If you enjoy singing and have fun doing it, then the choir is a great fit for you! The Choir serves during the

8 and 9:30 services through special music and singing with the congregation during hymns and choruses. No audition required, no experience needed, and anyone high school age or up is welcome.

Worship Team Led by Pastor Justin | justin@gracesealbeach.org Thursdays, 7 pm Church campus, Fellowship Hall

Whether you sing or play an instrument, there are lots of opportunities to be part of the worship team. High

school age and older are welcome. Talk to Justin about how to get started. Serving typically includes 1 Sunday a month for all 3 services.

G-Kids Led by Jennifer Watts | wattsdoin@earthlink.net Thursdays, 5-6pm Church campus, Fellowship Hall

Our singing group for elementary students is a super fun way to get involved in our worship ministries and learn

the fundamentals of music performance and worship leading. No audition or prior experience needed. Contact the church for more info or just stop by on a Thursday night and check it out!

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Tech Team (Audio/Visual)Led by Pastor Justin| justin@gracesealbeach.org Thursdays, 7 pm Church campus, Fellowship Hall

It takes a dedicated team of behind-the-scenes volunteers to facilitate our Sunday morning worship

experience. They help with sound, lighting, slides and all things techy. We welcome new people and are glad to train you and find a spot that fits your calendar. Come be part of making it all happen!

COMPASSION

Compassion Ministry TeamLed by Dave Gray | drdj.gray@verizon.net 2nd Sunday of the month, 12:15pm (lunch included) Church campus, Offshore Room

Our team is committed to partnering with a variety of organizations in our community and region to show the

love of Christ in practical ways. If you have a heart for others, especially those who are in need of help and hope, email or join us at our next meeting.

MISSIONS

The Missions CommissionLed by Robert Harrell | harrellrl@aol.com 9 Sundays per year, 12:15-2:30pm (lunch included) Church campus, Offshore Room

Do you have a passion for God’s mission to make disciples of Jesus? Join like-minded friends here at Grace

to help minister domestically and globally, to respond to missionaries’ needs, consider new initiatives, pray, and fellowship together. All are welcome.

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How can I join a group? You simply do one of the following:

• FilloutaWelcomeCard–Writethenameofthegroupyouwantto join along with your contact information on a Welcome Card and drop it in the offering plate on Sundays.

• VisitourWebsite–gotogracesealbeach.organdyou’llfindasimple form to fill out and submit.

• TalktoPastorTim

What if I’d like to lead a group? We recommend that you:

• HavebeenpartofaGraceGroupforatleastonesemester

• SubmitaGroupLeaderApplication

• ParticipateinGroupLeaderTrainingsastheyareoffered

Questions? Contact Pastor Tim

• tim@gracesealbeach.org

• 562-596-1605,ext.34

138 Eighth Street

Seal Beach CA 90740

(562) 596-1605

gracesealbeach.org

facebook.com/gracesealbeach

GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF SEAL BEACH