Cell Groups
What is a cell group?
Cell groups are small meetings where members seek to develop their faith and grow together. The meetings, which take place weekly, consist of four sections: welcome, worship, word and witness (the 4Ws). In many ways a cell group is similar to the old class meetings where members learn to trust and be accountable to each other as well as exploring how we can put our faith into action.
You may be aware that a ‘pilot’ cell group has been running in
the circuit for several months now. At the time of writing we are in
the process of planning our second contemporary worship service –
Revive. Several people who came have commented that they are looking
forward to the next one and found time and space during the service
to meet with God. Look out for details of the next Revive to be held
in the spring. These will initially be held bimonthly. All are
welcome.
One important aspect of the cell group is that we aim to grow and
multiply. The pilot cell group is now close to the point where we
will be multiplying into two groups as we are having difficulty in
fitting everybody into one room. If you are not part of a small
group, or you feel you would like to give the cell group a go, why
not join us for a week or two and experience it for yourself? A new
group is being started as a result of the recent Alpha course as
many participants have expressed a wish to continue to meet. New
members are always welcome.
If you would like to join a cell group or have any questions do not hesitate to contact Us.
A New Way of Being Church?
Do you dream of a church that grows and multiplies? Do you long to be part of a small group that is transformed by God? Would you like to be a part of a group where Christians try to be ‘real’ with each other – more loving, more adaptable, available and accountable? Would you like an opportunity to discuss ways that you can try to work out your faith everyday? If the answer to any of these questions is yes then joining a cell group is for you.
What is a cell group?
It is a small group that meets regularly to worship, use the Bible
to seek God’s direction for our lives and to witness to others. It
is not a house group or Bible study group although it is similar to
both. In many ways cell groups are similar to the old Methodist
class meetings but with a modern slant. Many small groups do not
develop or change but an emphasis of a cell group is to grow and
multiply. To this end members of cell groups will be active in
inviting friends, both from within and outside the church, to events
that the cell has organised as well as encouraging them to attend
Alpha courses. All members of the cell group are encouraged, but not
pressured, to lead sections of the meetings.
Does it work?
Many growing churches in the UK are finding that the cell church
model works. We have had a pilot group in the circuit for the past
few months and now feel that the time is right to expand. The group
has been a blessing to all involved and we have grown closer to each
other and to God in the few months that we have been meeting.
How can I get involved?
Talk to any member of a cell group. The pilot group meets on a
Monday evening and the new group meets on Wednesday evenings. I am
really excited about the future of cell groups in Consett, as it
seems to be a model that God is using to renew many churches. Don’t
worry if you can’t commit to every meeting – just attend when you
are able to.
Cells: When and where they meet
Monday Cells
Medomsley – 4, North View -7.30pm
John and Margaret Milligan 561958
Blackhill – 143, Benfieldside Road (and other addresses) – 7.30pm
Nigel & Bev Anderson 591772
Consett – 3, Sherburn Villas, Consett – 7.30pm
Elsie Fairlamb 590498
Wednesday Cells
Consett – Consett Methodist Church – Choir Room – 7.30pm
Bill Bailey 504502
Consett – 42, Romany Drive, Consett (and other addresses) – 7.30pm
Dennis Dawson 503714
Friday Afternoon Cell
Delves – 42, Greencroft Road – 1pm
Margaret Murray 504355 &
Joyce Brown 505027
If you are interested in joining a cell group please feel free to
phone or contact the leaders of the groups.
What happens at a cell group meeting?
There are four sections to a typical cell group meeting—these are known as the four W’s. Often, different members of the group lead different sections of the meeting.
Welcome - a short discussion question or activity. This is usually related to the theme of the meeting.
Worship - 10-20 minutes of worship. This may involve singing, prayer, meditation or other activities.
Word - A Bible passage is read and discussed. The focus of the discussion is on how we can apply the Scripture to our everyday lives.
Witness - A time of prayer and planning. An important part of cell groups is that they grow and multiply. The cell organises events to which they can invite friends and family.
