Beyond Sundays: What CV-ites Love Most About Circles
Small group, bible study, cell group; there are many names for a group who regularly gather to discuss Jesus, His word and how they shape our lives.
At Central Vineyard, we call them Circles.
We believe connection together and formation into a deep and healthy life of following Jesus is best done in community. Not just in the rows we find ourselves in on Sunday, but the circles of people around us.
From young adults to multi-generational, those living in a certain area or in a particular lifestage, Central Vineyard is full of Circles where people regularly gather to eat together, learn together, pray together and care for each other.
Just like a regular family, these ‘alternative families’ are beautifully unique in what they bring to the lives of those who participate. So, we asked a handful of Central Vineyard members what they love about doing life, not just in rows, but Circles.
Iris, 60s
I love how at home I feel with my circle. It’s a friendly, supportive and inclusive sub-community within the wider Central Vineyard, where we encourage each other and follow up on things we’ve prayed about with one another.
Jono, 20s
I love the fruit that has grown from consistently meeting with my circle weekly; the deeper connection, trust and relationship that only comes from committing to show up week after week.
Rob, 40s
I love that it’s a place where you can be genuinely honest and know there will be no judgement but instead you’ll be encouraged or challenged. So, it’s a space where all of that can happen; be honest be encouraged, be challenged.
Julia, 20s
I love having a space for deeper exploration of what we’re learning on Sundays or throughout our weeks. Journeying with other believers in close proximity is also refining and encouraging.
Dylan, 30s
I love the moments when I’ve shared struggles in my faith and been met with compassion, as well as a caring dose of encouragement to consider things beyond my field of vision and invite God back in. For a while I wasn’t in a circle, as being part of a vibrant social church community was enough for me. When I did get back into a circle last year, I quickly realised again the importance of the deeper space it creates for discipleship and fellowship.
Becka, 40s
I love that we connect as we get to know each other, and are able to encourage one another, feel safe being vulnerable and pray for one another.
Michael, 30s
I love how it’s a space to speak freely about anything and everything, a place for discussion on whatever and not have to agree on everything...and it's not a big deal. It’s a space without judgement but with accountability; a space to hit each other up about areas where we need it!
Sarah, 20s
I love the space it creates every week to dive deep into scripture and wrestle with big and small questions with a group I really trust. Discipleship to Jesus can be often be messy and confusing and it’s such a blessing to have people I can be honest and vulnerable with.
If you call Central Vineyard home but have been waiting to join a Circle, we invite you to consider whether today is the day to take the next step into deeper community.
The next Introduction to Circles event is Sunday 9 March, you can register here
QUESTIONS about CIRCLES?