If You Want To Be Cared For, Join a Care Group

 At Crossroads, we believe that as the church grows larger,
 it must grow smaller at the same time. We accomplish this
 through our Care Group Ministries. One of the best places
 to meet and bond with people is in a small group setting,
 and for this reason, Care Groups are the heartbeat of our
 church.

 You will understand the Bible better in a care group.

 If you’ve ever listened to a Bible teacher or preacher and
 wanted to stop that person and say, “But what about…”?
 Or “I don’t understand”! Then a small group is for you!
 Preaching and teaching is one way communication—you l
 isten while the speaker speaks. It’s fine for imparting
 knowledge but not as effective for personal application
 as a care group. In a care group setting, you can ask
 questions, participate in a discussion of the text, and hear
 others share insights and illustrations of the truth you are
 trying to grasp. The Bible must be applied to your own
 personal situations and that happens best in care groups.

 You will begin to really feel like part of God’s family.

 Most people who have been part of a group say the
 greatest benefit is the close relationships and friendships
 that develop. They will frequently telephone each other
 during the week to share an urgent prayer request on an
 exciting answer. You’ll discover that your needs and problems
 are not unique—we’re all in the same boat. It helps to know
 that others are facing the same difficulties, or have lived
 through them and learned spiritual principles in the process.

 Prayer will become more meaningful to you.

 Many people are hesitant to pray in front of others, especially
 in a large church. No one is pressured to pray, but as you
 become comfortable, you’ll be able to pray sentence prayers
 and join in. There are many promises in the Bible related to
 group prayer. In praying together with a few others, we are
 drawn together and we find answers to the needs in our lives.

 You Will be able to handle stress and pressure better.

 Care groups provide excellent support in times of crisis, change,
 and stress. You’ll have a sense of stability and security knowing
 there are people who really care for you and are committed to
 standing with you.

 When someone loses a job, or a family member, has an extended
 illness, or a mother needs a babysitter—these are practical needs
 that will be naturally taken care of through your care group. Your
 group will coordinate the sharing of hot meals to be brought in
 when your family is in need. Many people in our church could
 testify that they would not have made it through a difficult time
 if it hadn’t been for the support of their group. In addition we
 have a number of special support groups that deal with problems
 like alcoholism, financial difficulty, abuse, and other issues.

 For more information please contact us at 435-7337 or by
 E-mail atcrossmail@crossroadsweb.org