SMALL GROUPS
We live in a society that can be very isolating. Even though we are busy, surrounded by people, and incessantly connected by social technology, our culture still struggles with loneliness. Prince of Peace is a very large community. While it is a friendly, welcoming community, it can still be possible to slip in and out of Mass or other parish functions without developing true, human relationships.
When Jesus began the work of building the Church that would remain as His mystical body on Earth, He preached to thousands, had probably 120 or so people at the Ascension, sent out around 70 disciples to preach, but chose only 12 to be His close followers. And even among the twelve Apostles, Jesus often spent time with only 3 at a time.
There is a method evident within Jesus own earthly ministry, building connections and relationships that brought out the gifts, talents, thoughts, feelings, and experiences of His friends. Amid all the business of life, and in addition to the very fine and edifying programs that we offer at Prince of Peace, we believe there is a need to model our lives after Jesus, including the way we relate to one another. One way we can do this is in a small group.
Small groups take many forms, focus on many different activities or affinities, and can be made up of all kinds of people. But they all allow a context for us to get to know one another in a less superficial, more meaningful way. This knowing and being known by others has been an important part of the human religious experience since the Garden of Eden. A small group might study, pray, serve, support on another, or any combination of those things. One of the most common themes of a church small group is the Bible Study, but they are not limited to that.
A small group typically consists of 6-10 people who speak with and relate to one another frequently. We would love to have everyone in the parish involved in some kind of small group! The parish office of Parish Life is available to support, train, brainstorm, and serve you in any way you need to find or start a small group.
Advent Small Groups
The Christmas season is rich with promises. But what is the true promise of Christmas? What should we anticipate during this season and beyond?
The Promise of Christmas
Overview summary presented for each week with theme of the message, scripture referenced, and a "know, feel, and do" engagement strategy. Calendars and schedules provide guidance on when to use each series material. Graphics are also included to promote the series to your parish.
Prince of Peace Parish has obtained a license for any parish small groups to use this great resource during Advent. The program includes videos (<20 minutes each), discussion guides, and daily devotions... Everything you need to make the Advent season memorable for your group.
(no need to purchase)
Thanks to a generous donor, Mark Christian (Director of Adult Formation) was able to purchase copies of Bishop Robert Barron's book An Introduction to Prayer to distribute to the parish for free. Books are available in the Gathering Space.This book offers a collection of rich yet brief reflections on prayer in the Catholic spiritual tradition. Perfect for beginners but filled with profound insights for those looking to further their spiritual life, this book would make a great study tool for a small group during Advent!
Suggested Small Group Resources
STUDY & LEARN
Holy Mass/Eucharist
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Ave Maria Press - Becoming Eucharistic People | Real Presence | Behold, Believe, Become
Bible/Scripture
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Story of Salvation (FOCUS has additional free Bible Study guides here.)
PRAYER & SPIRITUALITY
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Liturgy of the Hours (Many other versions available)
SERVICE & SOLIDARITY
Contact Sandy in the Pastoral Care Office for info on parish groups who actively do Works of Mercy and Justice.
SUPPORT
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Catholics in Recovery - Online groups, or at Prince of Peace 9am Saturdays in the St Jude Room
Contact Dr. Dale Wisely in the Parish Health Office for info on other types of support groups.
If you have questions:
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about these or other resource ideas, including how to find, order, or implement them
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about adding your favorite resources to this list
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about starting or facilitating a group
Please contact :
Alex Kubik
Director of Parish Life
Phone: 205-822-9125 ext. 45