If you want to grow closer to God and to others, Rooted is for you! Our first Rooted experience is wrapping up, and the lives of nearly eighty people have been changed, thereby greatly impacting the Kingdom of God! Over the past ten weeks, three staff and five congregational groups have found true connection with Jesus and with each other. Many people were not plugged in to Shepherd’s Grove beyond Sunday morning, but today they have new friends, an increased sense of family, and a relationship with God that is growing deeper each day. While it has impacted each person differently, all have appreciated having a safe place to share their story and find support. Others have shared how their prayer life has blossomed and their ability to hear from God has cultivated a renewed sense of purpose in their life.
Of its many benefits, perhaps the greatest blessing of this transformational experience is that it provides a loving atmosphere in which to share struggles without judgement or criticism. In Rooted groups, participants can be vulnerable and open; many have spoken of having a new sense of freedom, as well as a greater ability to be active and empathic listeners who have more compassion for others. Since everyone has a different background and unique experiences, people have benefited from the wisdom of those in their group, and younger participants have been blessed by the perspectives of those who have already traveled some rough roads and have been willing to teach them how to avoid the pitfalls.
As you can imagine, there are too many stories to tell in this brief space, but I want you know that if you are willing to put in the time, Rooted will change your life! As you connect more fully with God and others, hope is renewed, fresh vision is birthed, and a deeper sense of purpose and calling emerge. Almost eighty people discovered this in the last ten weeks, so if you have a chance, talk to them about the difference it has made in their lives.
New Rooted groups will kick off April 10 and I don’t want you to miss the opportunity to experience more of what God has for you. You can sign up today or after any of the Sunday services, and feel free to reach out to me with questions.
I’ll see you there!
Bruce Cramer, Community Life Pastor