In a recent survey of PB UMC, our congregation showed a desire for deeper spiritual intensity. Ten leaders volunteered for a “Readiness 360” group who then met with four other churches in September to review our survey results and to consider next steps. As a group, we undertook a study of the Book of Acts in order to deepen our own spiritual intensity and to better understand how the earliest Christians undertook “church.” We used Acts: 24 Studies for Individuals and Groups (N. T. Wright for Everyone Bible Study Guides, ©2010) as a study guide. We met weekly to pray and study one or more chapters of Acts. As part of our weekly meetings we asked each other, “How is it with your soul?” The simple question yielded surprising results, touching us all and bringing us closer together.
We followed an apprentice model in leading the study. Pastor Bob led the study of the first chapter, then worked with a group member (apprentice) to co-lead the second chapter. The member led the third chapter solo. The following week the apprentice became the teacher, and met with a new apprentice to lead a chapter, lead a chapter together, go solo, and pass on the teaching to the next person. By the end of the study, all members had an opportunity to lead the group at least once.
Each of us felt a profound sense of spirit and connection, and so we decided to offer this study to the congregation. Each study group will be facilitated by members of the Readiness 360 team and will meet between Lent (February 18) and Pentecost Sunday (May 24), starting on February 22. We would love to have you join us. Please contact the church office or fill out an interest sheet in the weekly bulletin to sign up for one of these times:
- Sundays, beginning February 22, 9 to 10 am in the Lanai
- Wednesdays, beginning on February 25, 6:30 to 8 pm at Wesley Palms in Pacific Beach
- Thursdays, beginning February 26, 11 am to 12:30 pm in Room 205
Below is a short video report from the members of Readiness 360…
