Small groups are “the life-blood of the church.” Small groups meet so that people may grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
The objective of these groups is three-fold:
• To study the Bible.
• To create a space for people to connect at a deeper level.
• To provide space for sharing thoughts and spiritual growth.
Small groups occur many times during the week. So why not find one that’s right for you?
HUNUA SMALL GROUP
This group was launched as a way to help cultivate an understanding of the essentials of the Christian faith from one person who had shown an enthusiasm to find out. So its foundations are a discipleship group. We use the time to fellowship, grow in friendship, share one another’s burdens, pray and collectively unlock more substance from the Bible. An important aspect is reporting back how we have practically applied our Christian faith in the world and in encouraging our members to continue growing in Christ’s love.
PARRY’S SMALL GROUP
Our evenings are focused on activities to increase and strengthen our knowledge of God. We enjoy singing and at every meeting there is opportunity for praise. Our “knowledge“ time can be an in depth exegetical study of a section of scripture or it can be a theme with contemporary overtones or a reflection on church traditions and traditions in worship. We always conclude our evenings with intercessory prayer and supper.
FRIDAY AFTERNOON SMALL GROUP
We meet on every second Friday afternoon for those folk who find it easier to put this time aside to explore aspects of the Christian faith with others. While we explore how the Bible relates to every-day living, we share each other’s experiences in a discussion type setting. Anyone who would like to join with us at 1:30 pm each other Friday would be very welcome!
AVID YOUTH
Who is God? What does it mean to follow God? What does God mean to you?
At AVID we believe God has created us to live life to the fullest. We acknowledge high school is challenging, and our goal is to create a space where you can come be yourself and be part of an encouraging youth community that does life together. We play games, have God based discussions, eat food and more!
Our main program runs on Friday nights, 7pm – 9pm (7:30pm start on fortnightly intermediate nights) at Papakura East Presbyterian Church.
Contact Joy Sweeney – Joy@pepc.org.nz for any AVID updates.
INTERMEDIATE GROUP – OTT
This programme is run fortnightly on a Friday night and is aimed for those in school years 7 and 8. It will build on what is already being taught in the Intermediate Sunday School class and will be a bridge to Youth Group. All Intermediate aged kids are welcome. Come join us fortnightly on Fridays at 6:30pm to 8:00pm.
For more information contact Joy Sweeney – Joy@pepc.org.nz
PLAYGROUP
We provide a safe, friendly, welcoming environment where children can play, grow and learn and parents/carers can make new friends and find support. Playgroup provides a wide and exciting range of both indoor and outdoor activities in our spacious hall and fenced outdoor play area (both grass and soft surface).
We have a broad cultural mix with attendees originating from all around the world. Dads attend playgroup too. Grandparents play an important role in supporting busy parents and our morning tea helpers bless us.
Here are what some of our attendees said about Playgroup:
“Thank you very much for all the effort you put in to make playgroup happen.” “You are doing a wonderful job.” “You brighten the day for children and parents.” “Love the atmosphere, come for myself as much as the children.” “The grandparents are great.” “Very educational and fun for me and my child.” “Excellent morning out.” “PG is a highlight in my little ones week and enjoyable for me too.” “It’s an awesome playgroup.” “Thanks for all your hard work and commitment.” “Friendly playgroup.” “People very nice.” “Great range of toys, cheap price, great library.” “Keep up the good work.” “You guys are awesome.” “I’ve made many friends here.” “You are an awesome church.” “You shine the light of God brightly. You are all great.” “It is awesome to see families from many walks of life arrive week after week.” “We share each other’s joys and sorrows.”
We aim to dwell among and share the heart of Christ even if it’s only a cheery smile and a listening ear!
GLOBAL ACTION PARTNERS (GAP)
The GAP group, are those within our Church who have a vital interest in the many and varied activities overseas missions and they meet each second Sunday shortly after our morning service. GAP has been given the privilege and heavy responsibility of distributing the 5 per cent of the church’s regular offering. Quite a high proportion of this is used in the regular support of those missionaries well known to many of us, as well as giving a donation to each speaker, irrespective of the number of people at the meeting. This leaves sufficient (together with the GAP regular’s free-will offerings) to be able to help various emergency situations. We would love for you to join us. Our meetings begin with a light lunch.