The Coffee and Conversation small group was founded by Macland's Senior Pastor, Ray Jones. It was born of a desire to read books that specifically help and encourage disciples to grapple with the deepest issues of Scripture and grow in their faith. Since beginning in 2003, members have read and discussed a number of books by Brian D. McLaren including A New Kind of Christian, A Generous Orthodoxy, The Last Word and the Word After That, and The Story We Find Ourselves In, along with Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller.

As the name suggests, this group enjoys sipping java while engaging in spirited debates of spiritual matters. And, there is no better place for java than Starbucks! Therefore, it is no surprise that the Coffee and Conversation group has chosen the Starbucks located at the corner of Macland Road and Powder Springs Road for their meetings, which take place every Monday morning at 10 a.m.

When asked what being a part of this small group has meant to him, Pastor Jones replies, "I've enjoyed a safe place to talk, share, and learn about a gospel message that is radical good news. We have a diverse group of folks who gather together - different ages and backgrounds, men and women, working adults and retirees. This diversity allows for a wide range of opinions, view points, and perspectives to be expressed, all of which are valued and respected by the members of the group. It's proof that different people, from different walks of life, can share the same faith and love each other in the midst of dissimilar ways of believing and thinking".

The primary focus of the Coffee and Conversation is reading and study in order to promote the intellectual exchange of ideas for spiritual development. They find their fun and fellowship in simply being together in the Starbucks atmosphere, laughing and talking over their coffees, lattes, caramel apple ciders, and frappachinos. The group has not taken on a service or outreach project of its own; however, its members consistently participate in a number of general mission programs including neighborhood prayer walks, Macland's community block party for the Whispering Glen subdivision, handing out fruit and bottled water as part of the Silver Comet Trail ministry, and participating in the annual Chicken Run to raise money for mission projects.

The Coffee and Conversation is always open to newcomers, and Pastor Ray invites anyone who is interested in and open to a mature, in-depth investigation of tough spiritual questions to join them. If you would like more information about this small group, please contact the church office at 770/439-1548.