The Essential Christianity Small Group is one of the newest small groups to take shape at Macland. It was founded in the spring of this year (2006) by Kelly Barge and Cindi Endredi after they attended a leaders training seminar hosted by the Small Group Ministry Team at the church. The group takes its name from the book Essential Christianity: Practical Steps for Spiritual Growth by Bill Hybels and Kevin Harney.

Currently, the Essential Christianity group is comprised of four couples, all in their 30's and 40's, and all with children. The group meets once a month, usually on a Saturday or Sunday evening, at a different member's home each time. While their children play together the group discuss issues relevant to spiritual growth and general Bible study.

Because this small faith community is so new, they are continuing to develop the scope of their group. For instance, they are casting around for a more permanent name for the group, one which better reflects their focus, faith, and group character. They are also seeking ways to reach out - as a group - in service to others. Currently, individual members from the Essential Christianity small group participate in a variety of ministry areas at Macland, but eventually this group would like to take on an outreach mission of their own.

When asked what being a part of the Essential Christianity small group has meant to her, Cindi Endredi states it's helped forge a direction for positive spiritual growth . . .

"Because we are so new, we are still getting our spiritual footing. However, in spite of that, I feel like I can be very open and honest about my questions and doubts because the environment is very non-threatening and members don't judge each other. It seems sometimes like my walk of faith changes daily, and therefore just knowing that I have these Christian brothers and sisters to whom I can turn to discuss my issues and receive faith-based input has been a comfort. There is also a certain amount of accountability when you see other small group members on a regular basis . . . meaning you can't fall too far without someone being there to help pick you up and give you a slight nudge back in the right direction."

Kelly Barge adds, "I like it because we can all admit that we don't know it all. None of us are Bible 'experts' and no one has all of the answers. We tackle difficult issues of the real world and work together to help each other find the answers and grow stronger in our Christian walks. Also, because many of us live in close proximity and our children attend the same school or school-related events, we see each other outside of our regular meetings. This gives us the opportunity to continue our discussions about Christianity and our challenges of faith, and to carry these experiences over into ALL aspects of our lives."

The Essential Christianity small group is open to newcomers, and the group invites anyone who is interested in becoming part of this fresh, new faith community to join them.