Trinity's small groups meet for the purpose of knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and spreading the Good News of His gospel to others, both within Trinity Parish and throughout the community.

The first group (originally called a cell group) was organized at Trinity in 1994 with a membership of eight. When the first group's membership grew beyond ten members, it multiplied into two groups. Over time, through this multiplication process, other new groups were formed. There are currently five operating adult small groups at Trinity.

Each group meets once a week for about an hour to an hour and a half and adheres to the following agenda:

• personal spiritual "check-in" (how God is working in your life)
• Bible study
• discussion of the open chair list
• ministry to fellow group members and to others who may be interested in joining the group
• work/discussion regarding that group's unique mission
• intercessory prayer

The Bible study method the groupss use is patterned on the African Bible Study Method. A passage is read aloud by one of the members, then each member in turn tells what jumped out at him. The passage is read a second time, by a second reader, and preferably from a different translation, then each member in turn tells what in the passage bothered him, if anything. Finally, a third reader, using a third translation if possible, reads the passage, and each member in turn tells what he feels God is calling him to do. At no time during the readings does anyone interrupt another. At the end of the Bible Study, however, there is frequently discussion of a general nature concerning the passage just read.

The open chair concept reminds members that their purpose is to seek new members and to continue to grow and multiply. The names of prospective members, whether put forward by current members or obtained through individuals expressing a specific interest in membership, is maintained on an open chair list. Small group members are encouraged to pray for these individuals and for new names to add to the list.

The primary purpose of a small group is evangelism: spreading the good news of the Gospel, witnessing to those they encounter in their daily lives, becoming comfortable about discussing their faith.

Each member commits to coming every week, although several of the groups take time off during the summer months, so it's best to check the calendar for specific meeting dates. Over time, the members draw very close to each other, rejoicing when a member has good news to tell, and providing support and ministry when a member is going through a difficult time.

Membership in a small group affords a wonderful way to make progress on your spiritual journey. Please prayerfully consider whether you are now called to this ministry of evangelism and personal growth in faith and, if so, contact Fr. Michael Caldwell at 817-926-4631 or Leigh Cariker at 817-927-8648. You may also contact any of the small group leaders listed below for more information.

Norma Carrell: 817-738-8714
Group meets Mondays at 1:00 p.m.
Mission: Serving lunch at the Union Gospel Mission; delivering Altar Flowers to Shut-Ins

Elinor Normand: 817-923-3240
Group meets Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m.
Mission: Working at the Tarrant Area Food Bank

Lynne Stanley: 817-926-8817
Group meets Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m.
Mission: Making blankets for John Peter Smith Hospital

Andy Singleton: 817-926-3050
Group meets Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m.
Mission: sandwiches for Presbyterian Night Shelter

Linda Brandon: 817-927-2904
Group meets Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.