Small Group Studies

Small groups are the foundation of the United Methodist heritage. Nearly 200 years ago the Methodist movement began as small groups that met weekly for prayer, study, and accountability. They serve the very same purpose in our church today.

If you are new to Decatur First UMC, a small group is a great place to get to know people on a more personal level.

If you have been at Decatur First UMC for a while, joining a small group can create an opportunity to meet new people in the church family and widen your circle to include others who are right there in your Sunday school class, or the people you sit by in worship services.

If you are looking for ways to be more involved in the life of the Decatur First UMC, a small group is a great starting place.

Register Now for Winter/Spring 2012 Small Group Studies

Letters to Timothy and Us
 Facilitator:  David Naglee     Cost:  Free
Time (A) Sundays, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (co-ed group)
Dates: January 22 – March 25
Time (B) Tuesdays, 7:00 - 7:30 a.m. (men’s group)  Dates: January 24 – March 27
Dr. Naglee leads us in an examination of the two letters to Timothy. These “Pastoral Epistles” address some of the same issues within the early church that we continue to face today. Come study how we can hear anew these words on Christian living, doctrine, and leadership.

Scarred by Struggle, Transformed by Hope (author Joan Chittister)
 Facilitator:  Cindy Rust      Cost:  $12.00*
Time:  Wednesdays, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.   
Dates:  January 25 – March 28
What is hope? Is it real, dependable, or accessible? We all experience times of pain sorrow, stress, and suffering. Joan Chittister, a Benedictine monastic for over fifty years, has written this work drawing on Jacob's night-long contest with the unnamed stranger before his expected showdown with Esau. Our study is a ten week compassionate look at what Chittister calls the "umbilical cord between struggle and hope.”
*$12.00 = cost for paperback edition. If you prefer, you may download an e-reader version of this title. 
You will still need to register for the class.

The Way of Forgiveness [part of Companions in Christ series]
 Facilitator:  Harriet Kersey     Cost:  $12.00
Time:  Thursdays, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.   
Dates:  January 26 – March 29
Perhaps nothing goes more against the grain of human nature than the ideas of forgiving those who wound us and of accepting forgiveness from others. This eight week exploration of The Way of Forgiveness helps us learn how to deal with issues such as shame, guilt, and anger, helping us to recognize that a release of these feelings leads to the wholeness that Christ taught us and takes us on a path of freedom and joy.


 Click Here To Register Now for Winter/Spring 2012 Small Group Studies