Belonging

St Mary’s is a family where:

• all are valued;
• all are invited on a journey to discover who Jesus really is
• all are encouraged to go deeper into God and to discover the amazing gifts the Holy Spirit has waiting for us all!
• all enrich each other’s lives

1. Regular Attending

In order to get the best out of any group, club or activity, it is important to attend regularly. Imagine if you joined an exercise club to get fit, but only went along occasionally – the promised benefits would always be out of reach!

Jesus once said I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10).
To help us experience and grow in this amazing life, we encourage everyone to attend church services on a weekly basis. As we spend time together, we get a sense of belonging to something that is so much bigger than anything we could imagine. Here, in the services, we gain a sense of God’s greatness, we experience His love, we grow in the gifts the Holy Spirit gives each of us, and we have opportunities to receive prayer and encouragement.

2. Getting Involved

There’s room for all to make a difference in the life of the church and here at St Mary’s, we want EVERYONE to get involved in at least one of the many church-based activities and services. From handing out service sheets, to helping with Coffee, to working with our children & young people, to joining the choir or music group and so on, there are so many different opportunities. Ask the leadership or one of the people already helping as to how you can make a difference – we’d be delighted to find the ‘best fit’ for you.

3. Giving Financially

In the Bible, God encourages us to give money regularly as part of our worship and commitment to Him. A starting point is to give God 10% of what we earn. Today, most of our financial resources come from the generous giving of church members and it is these resources that enable us to run everything we offer. As our regular, committed giving grows, so do the opportunities we have to develop and set up new activities, groups and programmes. What could you contribute financially on a regular basis to help support and increase this work?

4. Growing Together

All of us are called to grow in our experience of God and to share our lives with each other. One of the best ways to do this is through joining a small group of 6-12 people. St Mary’s calls these Life Groups. In these groups we find a safe place to share our lives, to encourage and care for each other, and to grow in Christ through the power of His Spirit.

5. Talking with God…

Believe it or not – it’s possible to talk to God! His ‘line’ is never busy, you can call Him any time, and He answers! Whether in Life Groups, during the regular Prayer Meetings, after a Service, or with a member of the leadership or someone you trust – all of these are opportunities to talk to God. No experience necessary – all can learn how to talk to God!