At the heart of our life together at South Barwon is a network of small groups (called Growth groups) where people meet to make mature and mobilise committed followers of Jesus. We have found over the years that one of the best ways to grow spiritually, is to belong to a small group of people who meet intentionally to build up our church community and support each other.
Each group meets in a home, either weekly or fortnightly. While all of the groups are slightly different, they seek to make, mature and mobilise by focusing on the following three elements:
The good news of God’s work in Christ is at the centre of our lives, our community and our worship. Therefore our groups focus on studying the Bible together, learning and being shaped by the gospel.
Life was not meant to be done alone. Our groups are places where lives are shared, encouragement is given and received, friendships are built and where people find ways to practically love each other as God has loved us.
God, who is calling people to himself, has sent his people on a mission in the world to make Jesus known. In our groups we encourage each other in that mission and seek practical ways as a group to make Christ known in both words and action.
Sunday School is run throughout the school terms, for those at 4 y/o kinder to grade 2. Children are invited to go out to their 'class' about half way through the service. Sunday School is a time of discipleship, while studying a Bible story, singing and prayer.
Kids club (grade 3-6), Branch Youth (year 7-10) and Orchard Youth (year 11-12), meet most Wednesday evenings from 6.30-8pm at 125 Pigdons Road, Waurn Ponds. Young people spend this time having fun, playing games, and studying God's word together with trained and approved leaders.
South Barwon is committed to being a church where all people are well cared for. The elders of the church have the responsibility for pastoral oversight of the church, and each individual in the church is to be active in showing love and concern for each other.
In addition we have two key ministries of Care. Our Deacons are responsible for helping with practical needs for people both inside and outside our church community, while our Pastoral Care Team is responsible for visiting and maintaining personal connection with the elderly, those who are ill, and others who go through a time of crisis or need.
From giving relief to famine victims in East Africa, to helping people who are struggling to pay the bills, to visiting those who have lost loved ones, we want to show that God is near to those who suffer. Because God loves us, we love others. He is our true source of comfort, encouragement and strength who provides for every need.
3216 Connect Op Shop and charity is a South Barwon initiative, seeking to serve the local community. The shop provides a hub for people to gather and seek help, as well as raising money that goes back into the local community. For more information see the facebook page www.facebook.com/3216connect/
