‘Houston, we have a problem’
… is the famous, even if slightly misquoted report from the Apollo 13 spacecraft to the NASA Mission Control Centre, in Houston, Texas in April 1970. The ‘problem’ was an explosion which compromised nearly all systems in the craft, and meant that the planned lunar landing had to be aborted. Thankfully, as we know, the craft limped back to earth and the astronauts reached home safely.
We too, have a ‘problem’ …
… but one which is truly a blessing, rather than a crisis of intergalactic proportion! That is that our home groups have nearly all reached full capacity! As a result, we need to establish some new groups, so that no one misses the opportunity to learn, grow, enjoy fellowship and receive pastoral care, things that home groups provide particularly good environments for. It’s vital that we can support people no matter where they find themselves in their journey with God.
What can you do to help?
You might consider whether you would like to join a new group as a founding member. You might pass on the news to someone who might be thinking of joining a group – this is a very special opportunity for a group to be together from the start and grow together.
You might also prayerfully consider whether God is calling you to lead a new group. Support and direction would be available from me as needed along the way. There is also an experienced church member who is willing to walk alongside a new leader while they build up confidence, as a ‘trainer’ and co-leader.
Our mission may not seem as dramatic as that of the Apollo astronauts. But, looking at our world with an eternal perspective, it is, in fact, considerably more important! Heaven is our spiritual goal for all who God created.
‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’ Matthew 28:18-20 NIV
Laura Simpkins, Discipleship Coordinator
