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.
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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...
New Study Starting January 13
Untangling Faith
Reclaiming Hope in the Questions Jesus Asked
BY Amberly Neese
Have you ever felt you struggled to find your faith footing? Author Amberly Neese explores the questions Jesus asked as a way to reclaim that faith. Chapters include our own questions like “Can God be trusted?” and “How can i grow in faith?”
New Study Starting January 27
THROUGH THE DESERT
A STUDY ON GOD’S FAITHFULNESS
BY LINA ABUJAMRA
Share in a transformative 12-week interactive Bible study on God's faithfulness during life's challenging times. Whether you're navigating through spiritual deserts or seeking a clearer understanding of His faithfulness, this experience will awaken your Spirit and draw you closer to God.
In the midst of suffering, we often feel spiritually parched. We wonder if God is with us in this barren land or if He is simply a mirage. Yet Scripture shows us that no matter where God’s people find themselves—in battle or prison, in valley or wilderness—one thing is true: God is faithful.
In this rich Bible study, Dr. Lina AbuJamra, invites us on a journey through the desert with Abraham, the Israelites, John the Baptist, and Jesus. Along the way, we discover that our own deserts offer gifts of mercy, purpose, and spiritual abundance. Each week, Lina’s teaching, companion online videos, and thoughtful discussion questions help us find:
- A renewed sense of purpose.
- Freedom from feelings of failure and regret.
- A greater sense of trust in God.
- Deeper peace as God’s promises overcome our fears.
Through the Desert shows us how we can embrace God’s presence while still acknowledging our pain. And how God longs to reveal His faithfulness to us . . . exactly when we need Him most.
SHARE IN 12 NIGHTS OF INSPIRATION AND ENCOURAGEMENT
As we map the footsteps of God and His people Through the Desert. To dig deeper into God's faithfulness, contact the office to get your book with video access.
New Study Starting January 14
More information coming soon
a study of the Gospel of Matthew
William Barclay’s study guide
6:30 am
You can share in this study at any time!
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. “
