Anita Dobson, Head of Discipleship for all ages ministry
Get the most out of our current sermon series on SHAPE – Discovering your shape for God’s service. Jan/ Feb 2025
You can access the handouts for each week here:
http://christchurchdownend.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Handout-1-for-Life-Groups.pdf
http://christchurchdownend.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Handout-2-for-life-groups.pdf
http://christchurchdownend.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Handout-3-for-Life-Groups.pdf
http://christchurchdownend.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Handout-4-for-Life-Groups.pdf
http://christchurchdownend.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Handout-5-for-Life-Groups.pdf
http://christchurchdownend.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Handout-6-for-Life-Groups.pdf
You can access a study guide to work through on your own or in a group here:
Rhythm of Life: Getting spiritually fitter!
This year we are encouraging each other to access the Diocese of Bristol Rhythm of Life resources and sessions. You can find out more and sign up here:
https://www.bristol.anglican.org/churchlife/resourcesforparishes/rhythm-of-life/
We also have leaflets describing different spiritual practices and how to have a go. Please ask Anita Dobson for details. anita.dobson@christchurchdownend.com
More Resources for Rhythm of Life:
(Most of these books will be in our church library: please ask!)
Grieg, Pete (2019) How To Pray. London: Hodder & Stoughton
Macchia, Stephen (2012) Crafting a Rule of Life. London: IVP
Tomlin, Graham (2006) Spiritual Fitness. London: Continuum
Richard Foster (1989) Celebration of Discipline. London: Hodder & Stoughton
What’s your next step?
We believe that everyone, no matter how young or old, and no matter where they are on the journey of faith, can take the next step to draw closer to God.
We also believe that there are many ways to take next steps, and many ways to grow into the fullness of life Jesus brings.
Here are some of them:
Life groups
Home groups
Usually a mid-week gatherings of 8-12 people that acts as ‘church in small’. We encourage everyone to be part of a home group. They create a sense of community where people feel they belong and are cared and prayed for; they are an environment where faith can be explored and deepened in the context of every day life; they have the potential for transforming action as people get involved in local and global challenges. As stories are shared, relationships are built.
Prayer triplets and quads
Some people find they work better in smaller groups, as they can be more confidential. Many of our community are in prayer triplets or quads meeting in a variety of places and times to reflect and pray together.
Discipleship triads
Some enjoy a chance to really apply the Bible to their lives in an accountable way. Discipleship triads typically aim to split and form three new triads after a year.
Other ways to take a next step
Everyone is different in the ways they respond to God. For some, it’s serving in some way in the church or community. For others, reading and private study. For others, trying out new spiritual disciplines or a new way of worshipping. Some find growth through creativity, through prayer times, retreat days or prayer ministry.
Just ask!
More information
If you need more information please contact anita.dobson@christchurchdownend.com.