Idea Starter: Home-Based Small Groups Reach Out to Neighbors and Friends

EastLake Church in Chula Vista, Calif., encourages its members to form small groups based on common interests, like fitness, gardening, crafting, sports or games. Then it asks group leaders to open up the groups to people who live in the next house over, or people whose kids go to school with a group member’s kids or play Little League with them. Once they’re connected, the church encourages them to stay connected by getting involved in a ministry as well as off-campus missional work.

ONLINE: EastLakeChurch.com. Adapted from an article that appeared in the March/April 2012 issue of Outreach magazine.

James P. Long
James P. Longhttp://JamesPLong.com

James P. Long was formerly the editor of Outreach magazine and the author of a number of books, including Why Is God Silent When We Need Him the Most?

Key Takeaways From the Practical Guide to ‘Come Away and Rest’

I’m thrilled that Alyson has published an important book about stepping away from the chaotic noise of the world and into the rest of Jesus in “Come Away and Rest: A Guide to Personal Spiritual Retreats.”

Are We in Danger of Living Like the Rich Fool?

God graciously gives us money and possessions to meet real needs, both our own needs and the needs of others.

Calvary Church of Naperville: Calling All Champions

The church has added Champions Nursery, which serves special needs children from birth to 4 years old in a sensory-friendly environment.