Learning to Follow Jesus
The first Disciples were a small group.  they were called to "imitate Christ", and practice what he modeled.  They were not students but apprentices.  Everyone whether they be a participant
or a leader is called to model Jesus and show others how to be like him.

Small groups are of a size that people can minister to each other, use their spiritual gifts, and grow in their understanding of who God is and what h is purpose is for their lives.

A small group is a vibrant and life-giving place where it is safe to ask any question, and where there is always room for one more.  Authentic community is the core objective of a small group.  You will recieve the care and encouragement of others and be expected to minister, even if new in the Lord.

This ministry will include those who are not yet members of the group, including "pre" Christians.

Apprentices
Every small group has an Apprentice, a small group pastor in training.  This trainee pastor will leave the group (birthing) and form another group with their own apprentice.

Apprentices appear throughout the small group structure at every level: i.e. small group pastor, supervisor, and staff pastor.

St Andrews encourages 'holy ambition' and we expect that every group member would aspire to be an apprentice; every small group pastor aspires to be a supervisor, etc.

Pastoral and Missional
Small groups are our frontline in the delivery of pastoral care and outreach.

Each member is guided in their responsibility to care for another and work together with the group in reaching people with the Lord.

What is a VHS?
The VHS is the regular gathering of our leadership community.  Its purpose is to encourage, resource and support leaders.  A VHS includes times of training and prayer.

All pastors, supervisors and staff pastors, along with their apprentices, attend the VHS.

Leaders are cared for and supported at all stages.  No one is allowed to minister without the fellowhsip and support of other ministers.  Your journey in becoming like Jesus needs other people.  God uses us in each other's lives.  This is a key in being the Body of Christ.

We are building a church of small communities and want you to be a part.  God has placed gifts in your life and these are not for your benefit but for the blessing of others.

You will be encouraged to minister and support others.  You will be sked to participate in other people's discipleship.  You will not be allowed to receive without learning to give.

St Andrews is a community of Christians believing that nothing is as important as becoming like Jesus in a lost world.  We do not believe programmes are the key: people indwelt by the Holy Spirit and knowing God's grace are what God uses to turn individuals and communities around.

How can I get connected?
For an opportunity to minister and be ministered to contact the Senior Minister, a Supervisor, Staff Pastor, or Elder.

You could also phone St Andrews (438 1667) or email admin@standrews.net.nz
 
A PLACE WHERE NOBODY STANDS ALONE
The existence of community is the signature of God.  Among other things, relationships have an amazing potentioal to transform our lives - for better or for worse.  Throughout the history of the church, all the way from Jesus and His first followers, any powerful work of the Spirit is always accompanied by a renewal experience of the transforming power of community. One of the ways we pursue this is by meeting together in small groups of people who are committed to each others' spiritual transformation.

The small group is the Church in its most basic form.