The reason we have CARE groups is to provide a place where biblical accountability and relational transparency can happen. They're a place where spiritual gifts can be exercised, mercy needs met, and new leaders developed.

The fact is that Christians were never meant to follow Christ alone. Scattered all over the New Testament are instructions for believers on how to interact with each other in the community of faith. These are sometimes called the "one another" passages of Scripture. For example, we are commanded to pray for one another, care for one another, confess our sins to one another, admonish one another (and that's just scratching the surface). Community groups are the way we try to realize this vision what church life is supposed to be.

They're are also a chance to make sure that none of us gets left behind—spiritually, relationally, or physically. It can seem challenging just to get to know people at a church, let alone get to know people well enough to work through the challenges of real life together. Community groups are a chance for people to get to know each other at the level that we all need (and deep down, really want).

We plan to launch new CARE groups in Harrison and Crawford county starting February 2008. See Eric Hall for details and to sign up for a CARE group near you.