When Jesus began his public ministry he gathered a group of men to be his disciples. He called them from all walks of life to share the journey with him as he proclaimed the Kingdom of God. The twelve became his friends and confidants. Jesus shared his heart and mind with them and looked to them for support and feedback. Even though he was the Son of God, Jesus did not try to live a life of faithfulness on his own. Jesus sought out the support of other men. We encourage you to do the same.

Ten Reasons to Join a Men's Group

1. ACCOUNTABILITY - We are all sinners, and being in a group can give us the strength to resist.
2. BIBLE STUDY - Weekly small groups provide an opportunity to dig into God's word more often than you might otherwise.
3. SERVICE - Small groups make it easy and fun to get organized and serve in a number of ways. 
4. FUN - Men's groups find opportunities for fun, such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, golf, sharing meals, etc.
5. SUPPORT - No man is an island, and other men are uniquely suited to help a man deal with life's tough moments.
6. DISCIPLESHIP - It's a two-way street, sometimes you're the discipler, sometimes the disciplee.
7. SHARING - Sharing our perceptions and experiences helps us to be better husbands, fathers, sons, workers and Christians.
8. CONNECTION - Our small group gives us a sense of connection to the church, an awareness of what's going on, and a sense that we are a part of it.
9. FISHING FOR MEN - Seeing the spiritual growth of men in your small group will give you a greater appreciation for the importance of telling others the Good News.
10. HUMILITY - Participating in a men's group helps us realize that "it's not about me."

Want to Be Part of a Group?

Group meetings usually last sixty to ninety minutes and are kept to minimal numbers of guys so that everyone can participate at the comfort level they choose. Groups are encouraged to meet in any setting they choose. Meetings often take place in homes, restaurants, parks, or at the church. Groups are also not restricted to men from Christ UMC. If you are interested in joinung a group please contact the church office by phone (299-1571) or email. 

In Their Own Words...

Here's what several men have to say about their involvement in men's groups at Christ Church:

"Walking with God as a group has made me a better husband, father and citizen. It keeps God centered in this fast paced, distracting world." - Joe Geniac

"It (small groups) has helped us become better husbands, fathers, sons, workers and most importantly -- Christians.  I do not want to remember how I was before taking part in small group ministry." - Allen Leonard

"I could probably come up with a dozen reasons why my men's group is so important to me. Just ask me sometime. In the meantime, I'd just say that the group helps me follow Christ, and helps me have fun. It's just like a good workout. It's always hard to find time and hard to get to the gym or pool, but after you're done it makes you feel so good. Make time for a small group and it'll make you feel good too." - Greg Williams

"...I have already raised two wonderful children and most of the guys in the group were fathers of young children. I quickly realized they had so much more to teach me than I them. I am now on a mission to encourage as many of you as possible to join a men's group. Please try a group and see what element of support, encouragement, and challenge it adds to your life." - Carl Phillips