Small Groups - Spring 2024
Small Groups are short-term programs that the community can come together in Fellowship.
They’ve included programs such as Bible Study, Gardening, Cycling and Pickleball. Please see below as to the Winter 2024 Small Group initiatives.
If you are interested in a small group or have questions, please contact one of the group facilitators or the church office at admin@stmatthewsvf.org or 610-688-7055.
Evening Bible Study
Learning to Pray: A Guide for Everyone by James Martin, SJ will be facilitated on Thursday evenings by Rhonda Bletsch. James Martin also wrote, The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything, a recent St. Matthew’s book group selection and exceptional discussion. The one-hour study will begin at 7 PM on Thursday evenings at the church; dates TBD.
Please email Rhonda Bletsch if interested in participating. Book may be ordered online.
Facilitator: Rhonda Bletsch: rhondabletsch95@gmail.com
Methodists in Motion
This CYCLING group will gather to enjoy the outdoors and try out some of the excellent bike trails in the area. The group will meet on several Sunday afternoons at 1 PM over the coming weeks to explore a nearby bike trail together. Riders of varying ability and skill are welcome to join in as the focus is on fellowship and having fun.
Facilitators: John Bletsch: pastorjohn@stmatthewsvf.org
PickleBall
The sport’s simplicity, smaller court size, and slower-paced gameplay make it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. This sport is gaining popularity because it’s easy to play, low impact and appeals to a wide range of people – from kids to senior citizens. If interested, contact Pastor John.
Facilitator: John Bletsch: pastorjohn@stmatthewsvf.org
PEP (People Enjoying People)
On the fourth Saturday of the month (1/27, 2/24, 3/23, 4/27) adults will be gathering in Fellowship Hall for a meal and program. Ideas include – Greek Dinner with a movie; Scavenger Hunt, Recipe Sharing, Family Feud Night, Trivia Night, etc. Specifics to follow.
Facilitator: Jennifer Vastardis: jennifer.w.vastardis@gmail.com
Daytime study groups
A Men’s Bible Study, led by Bill Lloyd, is offered between worship services at St. Matthew’s in the Church Library. We share Joys & Concerns for our families and discuss one or two chapters of the Bible each week. These familiar stories come from both the Old and New Testament and provide wonderful lessons that we can share with our children, grandchildren as well as our St. Matthew’s family of Godchildren in our daily lives. Wherever you are in your life’s journey, . . .this Men’s Bible Study will provide opportunities to bear rich fruit in the hearts and lives of Christian children and teens as you help introduce or go deeper in relating these stores of Bible History as they grow in their faith.
Please email Bill Lloyd at wjlloydjr@gmail.com to be included on the weekly email list to find out about our upcoming Scripture passages or just stop by Sunday morning. Study will end on May 19th.
Facilitator: Bill Lloyd: wjlloydjr@gmail.com
The Gospel of Luke by Adam Hamilton. Beginning on Monday, April 8th – May 13th, we will be meeting at 1:30 in the Activities Room to explore “Jesus and the Outsiders, Outcasts and Outlaws”. Pastor and bestselling author Adam Hamilton explores the life of Jesus as told in the Gospel of Luke. Through Luke’s stories we find Jesus’ care and compassion for all as he welcomes sinners and outcasts. As we study Luke and see Jesus’ concern for those who were considered unimportant, we hear a hopeful and inspiring word for our lives today.
For the final 30 minutes, Pastor John will join us to answer any questions we may have from our reading and discussion. Please contact Jennifer Vastardis if interested in participating.
Facilitators: John Bletsch: pastorjohn@stmatthewsvf.org & Jennifer Vastardis jennifer.w.vastardis@gmail.com