Finally, the moment came when our “small families” (home groups) became one big family. The Evening of Small Groups is what we called the meeting. This was the opportunity for each small group to introduce itself and share with the rest of the participants.

Why did we have this event?

Anatoly Marfin, the deacon in charge of the small group ministry at Salvation Church, had this to say:

“Obviously, a church that develops through home groups may lose the broader spiritual connection and sense of belonging to one another (meaning the mutually reinforcing bonds between people), since all the efforts of its members are directed to strengthen relationships only within their group. As the body of Christ, we must gather together for worship and interaction. By offering a combined gathering for all household groups, we pursued these goals: to connect all of the groups together and to see and learn about how other groups are developing, and to find out about how the group members value their own group and serve God together.”

Were these objectives met? Let's hear from the participants.

Golovash Vladimir (Leader of a small group for youth):

“Overall I was satisfied with the small group evening. I was pleased that quite a few people came.  It was an indication that we are getting closer to each other, which means that small groups do in fact work. I enjoyed the relaxed and cheerful atmosphere, and in my opinion that is the most important thing for an event like this. This was also important as an opportunity to really get acquainted with other small groups, to see God’s work in them. The organizers (and that includes me) were too passive, and with more forethought we could have cut the duration fo the meeting. If we had known in advance about the individual presentations made by the groups (or lack thereof) then the program time could have been shortened. But since this was the first event of its kind, we can excuse the oversight. I really hope that this is not the last meeting of this type.”

Korotich Victoria (a member of a small group):

“The small group evening exceeded our expectations. There was a very warm atmosphere. It was a joy to see all the groups together come together with such inspirational and heart-felt performances. I was particularly pleased that they all supported each other. The program was very interesting and the time flew by. I was especially happy about the repentance of a young man. We all felt like members of a large family, we were so different in age and interests, but nevertheless, there is One Who has united us all! Glory to Him for this!!!! In short, the evening was a success!!!!!”

Andrei Churkin (a member of a small group):

“…I wasn't particularly enthusiastic about this meeting, but overcoming the problems of the flesh (recalling a scene from one of the groups) I plunged into a time filled with the worship of God, testimonies, jokes, and a feeling of family! I went away happy!”

With that…Until we meet again!