MINISTRIES
242 HOME FELLOWSHIPS:
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” [Acts 2:42]
The name “242” is taken from the book of Acts, chapter two, verse forty-two...
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where we read that the early Christians “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching [Scripture] and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread [probably the Lord’s Supper, though this may refer to all instances of intentional hospitality] and to prayer.” These habits of the heart (among others) have also been called the “means of grace;” that is, they are God-given paths that we travel together in order better know and love Him and one another. The fellowships, which meet in a designated host home, typically consist of eight to twelve adults, plus children.
If this seems a bit lofty, start here: when you join a 242 group, you will have a good opportunity to make new friends over good meals. All the “graces” may not flourish overnight, and they will not be forced. The table is set, however, for all manner of blessing as you simply show up and care for one another. 242 groups are not the only way to grow in these devotions, however, and we know that circumstances differ for each of us. Thus, while we warmly commend them, we are not “pushing” these groups on you. What is essential is that all of us put ourselves in the path of grace often and rhythmically, one way or another, so that the purposes of our Lord will shape our lives and our church. We will establish new 242 groups this Fall that will meet for two years. The groups meet on the first Sunday of each month. However, each group is free to deter from this norm if meeting at another time is preferable. Please complete the form below if you are interested in being placed in a 242 Group. There are three commitments that will go far in making this new cycle successful. First, decide to love the group you are placed in before you know the roster. Make this a matter of prayer. Whatever (or whomever) we invest in, we usually come to like, even if the chemistry is not ideal at the outset. Second: “Just show up.” Make your group a priority; commit to regular participation. There will be, most likely, occasions when unforeseen circumstances will prevent you from attending, which leads to the third commitment. If and when you are “providentially hindered” from being present, take care to make this clear to the rest of your group as early as possible. Being quick to “reply to all” in response to any communication will promote the order and the well being of your group. |
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