A Lenten Small Group

 

The first small group we joined several years ago in our church in South Bend specifically asked us to meet with them because we didn't have any small children and they were a bit overwhelmed with children who needed to be cared for.  Our first meeting was supposed to be a costume party for Halloween.  Creative costumes have never been my thing but I had an idea.  I stuffed a pillow under a large shirt and went as a pregnant woman which would have been quite the shocking surprise for everyone for someone my age--60 or so.  

After a few years with that group, we took on the joint leadership of a group of graduate students who worshipped at our church or were somehow affiliated with others who did.  We provided a meeting place and food and the young folks took on the leadership in all other ways.  We did introduce them to the idea of "white elephant" gifts for our Christmas parties which enabled us to get rid of a few odd items.   As it turned out, the Dead Sea Scroll ties were quite sought after as folks traded up for them.

Two and a half years ago we moved to Princeton and when the opportunity came for joining a Lenten small group, we signed up--specifically saying we hoped to meet some younger folks.  This is our third Lenten season meeting at the home of two young men who live only about a five minute drive from our apartment.  The church, Nassau Presbyterian Church, provides lessons which are coordinated with the Sunday sermons and adult education classes.  So we discuss a passage and then are certainly more focused on what the sermon will provide for us to contemplate.

Each meeting begins with an "ice-breaker" question which has been great fun as a way to get to know each other.  We use questions from the church as guides for our discussion and we end up with a time for sharing of concerns and for prayer.  

As newcomers to the area, we have been so pleased to have had this opportunity to meet a few other persons.  Especially in this time of Covid isolation, it has been good to chat with others.  Last year we met by Zoom.  This year we are meeting in person.  Jim and I wear masks and a few of the others do as well.  We are all vaccinated.

One of the leaders mentions and thanks us for our courage and vulnerability.  Being a part of a small group and sharing concerns with others is demonstrating vulnerability.  I am grateful for those who have shared their needs which have been profound and I am praying for those needs.  I feel encouraged by hearing how others are trying to live out their faith in their work and their families.