The notion that growth and development are best fostered in the company of others is a profound and insightful one.
Just look at the example of Jesus and his disciples - the Master intentionally recruited a small group of 12 followers, not to merely preach at them from a distance, but to intimately train, teach, and ultimately send them out into the world. Together, this close-knit band shared meals, engaged in deep conversations, and journeyed side-by-side, living life in true community. There was an invaluable richness and depth that came from this shared experience that could never have been achieved through solitary study or detached instruction. The disciples were able to learn, process, and apply Jesus' teachings in real-time, with the support and accountability of their peers. And even beyond the profound spiritual growth, there was an undeniable value in the camaraderie, the mutual encouragement, and the simple joy of fellowship.
The same rings true for women today -
while there is certainly a time and place for solitary reflection and individual growth, there is something uniquely powerful about gathering together, sharing a meal, swapping stories, and walking through life's ups and downs side-by-side. Whether it's a small Bible study group, a monthly book club, or just a regular girls' night, the opportunity to connect, encourage, and spur one another on is a gift not to be taken lightly. For it is in these sacred spaces of vulnerability and trust that the most meaningful and transformative growth can truly take root and flourish.
When the people of God come together in small,
intimate groups, a profound sense of unity
and growth can emerge.
These close-knit communities provide a space for believers to connect on a deeper level, fostering meaningful relationships and a shared journey of faith. It is within these groups that individuals can find the encouragement, support, and accountability needed to navigate the challenges of life from a Christ-centered perspective. By gathering regularly to study the Word, pray together, and share their experiences, participants are able to build a strong foundation of trust and genuine fellowship. The richness of these small group dynamics allows for authentic vulnerability, honest discussions, and the mutual edification that comes from believers walking alongside one another. It is our sincere hope that by offering such opportunities for women to connect with like-minded sisters in Christ, a vibrant and close-knit community can take root and flourish. Through the power of the Holy Spirit working in and through these gatherings, lives can be transformed, faith can be strengthened, and the kingdom of God can advance as believers spur one another on toward love and good deeds. The potential for unity, growth, and impact is immense when the people of God choose to gather in these intimate settings, where iron can sharpen iron and the love of Christ can bind hearts together.
July 9
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
As the scent of spring begins to fill the air with its fragrant promise of new beginnings and growth, we are excited to extend a heartfelt invitation to you from Women United, a Ministry of Armstrong Chapel.
We warmly invite you to share in a delightful lunch filled with community, connection, and meaningful conversations. We believe that gathering together over a meal is a wonderful way to strengthen bonds, foster relationships, and create lasting memories. Your presence at our event would truly make it a special and enriching experience for all.
We sincerely hope you can join us and be a part of this uplifting celebration of sisterhood and unity.
RSVP
Jan. 2025
Let's band together to support our local school kids through Inter Parish Ministry!
The time has come for IPM to fill 500 backpacks with essential supplies for students of all ages. Your ongoing help truly impacts the lives of these children and their families. We are focusing on providing folders, composition notebooks, highlighters; however, any other school supplies are welcome.
Look out for the cart in the atrium
let's work together to make a positive difference in the community!
Supplies are Due Sunday, July 27
What a great Saturday morning!
It was a heartwarming Saturday morning filled with fellowship as 15 women joyfully packed over 200 packs for the Women United's 5th Annual Period Packs Project. These essential packs will go out to 3 mission partners - J. P. Parker School, Heritage School, and MEAC. Thank you to everyone that made this project possible, and a special thank you to Shelley and Jan for taking lead!
Period Packs Project 2024
Women United is a Ministry of Armstrong Chapel that provides a nurturing and supportive environment for women to come together in faith, inspiration, and fellowship. At the heart of this group is a shared desire to deepen their spiritual connection and find encouragement through the study of God's word. Each one of the meetings is a sacred space where women can openly share their joys, struggles, and insights, knowing they are surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals who will listen without judgment and offer empathy and wisdom. The discussions are led with a gentle, thoughtful approach, allowing participants to explore the scriptures at their own pace and gain new perspectives from the diverse backgrounds and life experiences represented in the group. Beyond the intellectual pursuit of biblical understanding, Women United also fosters genuine camaraderie, as members build meaningful relationships and find solace in the mutual understanding that comes from walking together on the spiritual journey. Whether it's celebrating triumphs, mourning losses, or simply checking in on one another's wellbeing, this small group offers an invaluable sense of belonging that nourishes the souls of the women who attend. Through their time spent in fellowship, study, and prayer, the members of Women United are empowered to face the challenges of daily life with greater faith, resilience, and joy.
Small Group studies...
4 week study began April 28
The Rewritten Life – When God Changes Your Story
by Jessica LaGrone
Jessica uses the characters in the Bible to show us how God rewrites your story. God is a masterful editor. When our stories need a rewrite, God is there with a new page and a new start. She connects the biblical stories to our own lives, showing us that God wants us to be just as intimately involved in rewriting our stories so that we may become and do all that God has planned for us—all for God’s glory.
God wants to rewrite your story and transform your life.
Your story can change. Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, Naomi, Daniel, Peter, and even an unnamed woman in the Bible are all testaments to the transformational power of God.
6 week study began May 12
Surprised by Hope:
Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church
by N.T. Wright
Share in an evening of inspiration
Dive deeper into the profound hope of Jesus with this study guide from our 2024 Lent Sermon Series. Renowned biblical scholar N.T. Wright brings you inside the Scriptures to grasp the full, breathtaking hope Jesus offers the world, and its impact on your life today. Gain an exciting new vision for your life on earth in light of your future in heaven. Wonderful as is the promise of heaven, a glorious hereafter is just part of what salvation is about. What about
today? Jesus called his followers the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Your life here and now is of tremendous consequence, and what you believe about the future has a direct impact on how you live in the present.
In six transforming, faith-inspiring sessions, N. T. Wright opens your eyes to the amazing full scope of what God's Word has to say about the world to come and the world that is. Surprised by Hope provides a clearer vision both of the future and of God's kingdom at hand today. This study guide is designed for use with the companion Surprised by Hope video sessions, and provides individual and group activities, additional background material, and between-session personal studies that will enhance your experience of the video sessions.
N.T. Wright guides us in exploring God's vision for His kingdom on earth. God desires for us to embrace a profound sense of hope—not merely an eager anticipation of the future, but the tangible reality of God's kingdom unfolding on earth today.
To explore each session in more depth, please contact Victoria or the church office to obtain the study guide and video access.
Gather 'round, ladies! It's time to ignite our spiritual flames as we dive into a weekly Bible study session. We are a small circle of women eagerly anticipating these gatherings to delve into our study and share the precious spiritual gems we have unearthed. Let's relish in the joy of coming together, enriching our souls, and supporting each other on this beautiful journey of faith and knowledge. Embrace this opportunity to grow, learn, and build lasting connections that nurture both our hearts and minds. Let's make this Bible study a sanctuary of wisdom, love, and vibrant discussions that leave us inspired and uplifted every time we meet.
As we are finishing up a long study, this is a great time to join this group to make new friendships, support and be supported, and celebrate the joys in our lives. This spring we will do some group volunteering and meeting Tuesday mornings either at Julie’s, or at a coffee shop in the area to continue our support, celebrations, and having fun.
To delve deeper into this enlightening study, reach out to Julie or the church office for additional information.
a study of the Gospel of Matthew
William Barclay’s study guide
6:30 am
Though we find the Gospel of Matthew first in the New Testament, many scholars believe that the Gospel of Mark is older. Matthew then is often seen as an expansion of Mark, incorporating most of the content of Mark while also adding sections that contain the teachings of Jesus, such as the Sermon on the Mount, and stories about the birth and infancy of Jesus. The Gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as "God with us" even until the end of time.
This study lends itself to “jumping in” at any time. In this study, we get a “scholarly immersion in the biblical texts on the one hand, and on the other his (Barclay’s) acute concern with addressing the questions important to ordinary Christian believers as they try to connect the ideas of the Bible with the realities of everyday life. “
You can share in any of these studies at any time!
The Men and women Small Group Bible study led by Kent Smith just ended...
Look for Disciple II Coming this fall
