The church of the first century was incredibly dynamic and flexible. Communities of Jesus followers met together in their homes, learning and growing together by meeting one another’s needs. That early life of the Fellowship of Believers is described in Acts 2:41-47.
Over the years and through the centuries, Christians have continued to find that the best way to experience true Christian fellowship is in a small group.
It’s a place where you can come to give and receive ideas, help, and encouragement. It’s a place where you're part of a group that's seeking to grow in their faith just as you are; a group that will be with you through your struggles and rejoice with you in your triumphs. It's a place where you usually gain lifelong friends!
Whether your spiritual journey is just beginning, or you're a seasoned Christian, you'll be challenged and moved by participating in a small group.
UMCW's Small Group Study & Fellowship Opportunities:
UMCW has several small groups that you may join throughout the year. There are a couple ongoing groups that choose among themselves what they'd like to read or study together. We also form other groups once or twice a year around church-wide studies. Those usually last about 4-8 weeks, so it's a great way to get to know each other better and sample the fun, fellowship, and spiritual growth of a small group.
Ongoing Small Groups:
Women's Bible Study & Social Groups
- Weekly on Tuesdays - 9:30-11:00am - Meets at Kimball Farms in Westford
- Weekly on Thursdays - 7:00-8:30pm - Currently meeting at the Welsh's home
Men's Bible Study
All of the above groups have room for new members so they'd love to have you! If you'd like to learn more or talk to the current group leaders, please contact our Christian Education Team Lead.
- Weekly on Tuesdays - 7:00-8:30pm - Meets in the Church Library
Special Programs:
24 Hours that Changed the World
We're currently doing a church-wide exploration of the 24 Hours That Changed the World as our 2011 Lenten Study. This program includes a small group that's meeting on Sundays after the 9:30 service. Click here to learn more about that program.
Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations
Another recent church-wide study explored the Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations. This was a 5-week study that we were thinking about both in our Sunday worship gatherings and in 8 small groups that met in people's homes throughout Westford and surrounding communities. This book touched upon every aspect of our life together as a community of believers, so we continue working to implement its practices.
A Sampling of Popular Previous Study Groups
Homebuilders: Raising Children of Faith by Dennis & Barbara Rainey
As Christian parents, we want our children to enjoy a strong, satisfying, life-transforming faith. But beyond modeling a strong faith, many of us still wonder, "What specific things can we do to be even more purposeful in growing our kids' faith?" This small group study from the FamilyLife ministry was intended to help parents gain confidence and ideas for a clear plan.
The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
This study helped us understand why we're alive and God’s amazing plan for us – both here and now, and for eternity. Rick Warren's best-selling book guided us through a personal 40-day spiritual journey that transformed answers to life’s most important question: What on earth am I here for? Knowing God’s purpose for creating us reduces stress, focuses energy, simplifies decisions, gives meaning to your life and, most important, prepares us for eternity.
For more information on small groups or to join one, please contact our Christian Education Team Lead.
