We are delighted to offer affinity groups of all sorts this spring in an effort to draw together our members into meaningful spaces of connection! An affinity group is a small group of people led by church members that share a common interest or an “affinity” in a wide range of hobbies, activities, or life stages, and gather regularly to enjoy them. These groups aren’t intended to replace your Sunday School or small group, nor to draw you away from worship, discipleship, fellowship, or service. Rather, these affinity groups help us live into the joy of play, while getting to know each other in fresh and fun ways!
Arts & Crafts – led by Meredith Parker & Sheri-Lyn Robertson
Sunday afternoons, 2-4pm
If you love to be creative and also want to have a great time of conversation and community please join us for the arts and crafts affinity group. We will meet with a special project planned and spend time creating a craft and more importantly a community. We have made candles and tea towels in past classes. We have a fun line up of seasonal crafts for the upcoming classes. We hope you will join us! (Some cost may be associated with the projects. We do ask you RSVP for each event so we will have enough supplies.)
September 22: Fabric pumpkins
October 20: Clay trinket bowls/trays
November 10: Christmas wreaths or ornaments
January 5: Prayer journal for the new year
Birding Group – led by Roper Halverson
September 21, 8:30am, Miller Park; November TBD
Join with others for an opportunity to listen and seek God’s creatures in trees and in the woods. Experience is not necessary but binoculars are. Open for all ages. We walk slowly and do a lot of listening. The group will meet in the playground parking lot at Miller Park near the tennis courts. Please let Roper know if you plan to join (broro331@bellsouth.net).
Centering Prayer – led by Joani Hughes
Wednesday, October 23 & Wednesday, November 6, 9am, Young Adult Classroom
Contemplative prayer or Centering Prayer is not something new. It is an ancient form of prayer that depends very little on words. It is a deliberate effort to sit in the presence of God and give Him our undivided love and attention. Centering prayer nurtures interior silence, teaches us the art of letting go, and helps us experience our struggles with greater clarity and balance. We will be reminded that “performance or success” are not part of the Centering prayer experience. The only way to “fail” at Centering prayer is to just not try it. Our group time will provide an opportunity to practice for a short period of time in a non judgmental spirit of encouragement. Contact Joani for more information (joanirhughes@gmail.com).
Dog Park Gathering – convened by Linda Jones & Beth Sabbagh
Dates TBA!
Downtown Walking Group – convened by Terry Lefler
Thursdays at 10am
The downtown walking group provides 3-3.5 mile aerobic exercise that allows you fellowship with church members and non-church members. You experience the beauty of West End homes, get acquainted with businesses downtown and see places where our church contributes to mission projects. This is a fun way to exercise plus enjoy the company of others. Contact Terry for more information (terrylefler@gmail.com).
Theology on Tap – convened by Matt Steen
Tuesday, October 15 & December 10 at 7:30pm
Join us at Joymongers Barrel Hall for a relaxed and open gathering where faith and curiosity meet! Whether you’re new to theology or have strong feelings about the Deuteronomistic history, come enjoy good company, meaningful conversation, and refreshing beverages. No pressure, just great dialogue in a laid-back setting. All are welcome! Contact Matt Steen with any questions (mattsteen@gmail.com).