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Small Groups & TeamsAt Avondale UMC, we envision being a place where people like you can connect with God and with each other. Below, you’ll find this quarter’s small groups and service opportunities. They’re great ways to connect with God and other friendly people at Avondale UMC. With so many burdens and demands in our lives, it’s important to carve out time to grow and serve. We encourage you to make it a priority to be a part of at least one group for growth and at least one opportunity for service each quarter. Think of it as inhaling and exhaling God’s love—two vital aspects of your life of faith. And, because it’s quarterly, you can adapt to fit your changing schedule. To inquire about and/or sign up for one of these opportunities, simply contact the coordinator listed or click the "Sign Me Up" button. The coordinators and leaders will be glad to help you connect! To download a PDF version of this quarter's small group, click the following link:
Summer 2013Small Groups for Learning Small groups for learning include Bible studies, book studies, covenant groups, and Sunday school classes. They strive to help you not only to deepen your understanding about your faith, but also to walk more faithfully as a disciple of Christ. Some small groups are ongoing; others are short-term. Most groups include opportunities for reading and study on your own and then a weekly group gathering in which you will have an opportunity to discuss with other participants. Galatians In-depthThis small group will be an in-depth study of this compact powerhouse of a letter—the second-oldest writing in the New Testament. We’ll examine Paul’s argument along with the letter’s background, historical setting, and language. And, most importantly, we’ll explore how this letter is speaking to churches in the twenty-first century. Leader: Pastor Brandon Harris Schedule: Wed. 5:45-7:00pm; June 12-August 7 Type of Study: Bible Study Books/Resources: Provided Childcare: Onsite Location: 4248 Overlook Dr, 35222 Contact: brandon@avonumc.net; (205) 478-7609 Radical Outreach Book StudyTo prepare for the new outreach opportunities at Avondale, we’ll discuss three books about the theology and practice of ministry with the poor. Participants will read ONE of three books and contribute to group discussion as we synthesize the ideas and perspectives from all three books. Leader: Rachel Estes & Gwenn Freeman Schedule: Sun. 10:00-10:50am; June 9-July 7 Type of Study: Book Study/Discussion Books/Resources: Participants purchase and read one of the following books in advance of the study • Toxic Charity: How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help (And How to Reverse It) by Robert Lupton • When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor...and Yourself by Steve Corbett • Serving with Eyes Wide Open: Doing Short-Term Missions with Cultural Intelligence by Livermore and Borthwick Childcare: Church nursery Location: Chapel Contact: rachel.estes@gmail.com; (205) 266-3902 Fellowship ClassThe fellowship class is an ongoing group of primarliy senior adults who follow the “Adult Bible Studies” curriculum, which engages participants in daily readings and a Sunday lesson/discussion. This summer, the class will study the biblical theme of God’s demands for justice. New participants are always welcomed. Leader: Linda Jones Schedule: Sun. 9:45-10:45am, ongoing Type of Study: Bible study; lecture & discussion Books/Resources: Provided Childcare: Church nursery Location: Fellowship Hall Contact: lindaj156@aol.com; (205) 919-2516 Spotlight Opportunities for Service Every service makes an important contribution, but spotlight opportunities are ways that you can serve that are unique for this quarter or for which there is a special need. Please consider how you can make these ministries happen through your time and talents. You can even serve on a trial basis to see if it’s a way that your gifts can make a difference. Chancel ChoirThe chancel choir provides musical leadership during the worship service including singing an anthem, hymns, and other service music. No choral experience necessary. Come and join the fun! Leader: Frances Ferrell Schedule: 10:30am Sundays; 7:30pm Wed. (rehearsal) Childcare: Church nursery Location: Church Contact: fferrell@avonumc.net; (205) 967-9453 Children’s Sunday SchoolChildren’s Sunday school takes place during worship. Adult leaders work with children through a fun lesson that includes a bible reading, crafts, and other fun activities. All lesson plans and materials are provided. Leader: Alison Jenkins Schedule: 11:00 Sundays, once monthly Childcare: Church nursery Location: Church Contact: ajenkins@avonumc.net; (205) 586-4818 Guest OutreachHelp connect newcomers to Avondale UMC by delivering a welcome packet to worship guests on Sunday afternoon. All it takes is a friendly smile and a simple, “We are so glad you worshiped with us!” Leader: Pastor Brandon Harris Schedule: Sun. afternoon (about 30 minutes) Contact: brandon@avonumc.net; (205) 478-7609 Vacation Bible SchoolVBS is a one-week camp-style experience for kids age 3-10 in which they explore faith in a fun environment. Volunteers are needed to work with children, coordinate activities, and help behind the scenes with setup and preparation. Leader: Alison Jenkins Schedule: 9:00am-noon + as available June 3-June 7 Childcare: Church nursery Location: Church Contact: ajenkins@avonumc.net; (205) 586-4818 Ongoing Opportunities for Service These ongoing service opportunities are ways that you can get plugged in to ministry at Avondale UMC any time. These are great ways to play a part in God’s mission at Avondale. There are many different ways to serve with varying commitments. Where is God calling you to lend a hand?
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