We EQUIP people for discipleship through Christian education and NURTURE and love each other
through fellowship as a family of faith.
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SHPC is passionate about getting people in healthy small groups!
“So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.” 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Purpose
Small groups are key to building significant Christian relationships and growing closer to God. Two important aspects of our L.I.F.E. groups are Fellowship and Discipleship. We believe these values will help develop strong disciples of Jesus, and the main goal of every group is to help people become disciples who make disciples.
Overview
Jesus modeled His ministry through creating a small group of twelve disciples who were relationally connected (Fellowship), and structured on His teaching (Discipleship). We seek to follow this model in how we do L.I.F.E. groups.
Every group is Relationship Centered. We expect participants to develop meaningful, authentic, gospel-focused groups where members feel known and needed.
Every group is Scripturally Structured. The level and type of study from the Bible will vary from group to group but must be central to every L.I.F.E. group.
Fall Sessions
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP (CO-ED)
This group is for anyone who is grieving the death of a loved one – whether that loss happened recently or some time ago. Each week includes a topic on grief in a video put together by experts in the field. Acknowledging that God is the Healer of all wounds, all materials are Christ-centered and Biblically-based. >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Mondays from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. (September 18)
Where: Fowler Conference Room
Leader(s): Sandy Gillespie, Karen Lampley, and Sheila White
MONDAY MEN’S GROUP
A study of David | An in-depth knowledge of the Bible is not required to benefit and enjoy participation in the group. Reading just a Bible chapter or two each day, you will discover life-altering stories that invite you to follow Christ as a true disciple. >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Mondays from 12:00-1:00 pm (TBD) | Where: Spitzer Building, Room 232
Leader(s): Peter Blackwell
WEDNESDAY CO-ED GROUPS
Topical Bible Study | A year-round lecture-based group goes deep into Scripture and includes a time of fellowship and prayer. Just show up or >CLICK HERE to register for online participation.
When: Wednesdays 10:30-11:30 am | Where: Fowler Conference Room and via Zoom
Leader(s): Fran Dotterweich
Knitters and Stitchers | All are welcome, seasoned cross-stitchers and knitters, and newbies without experience. Equipment will be provided. We will be cross-stitching a gift for the newly baptized and knitting baby blankets and prayer shawls to encourage those who are sick, sad, or grieving. During our time, we will enjoy life together, share stories and concerns of the church, and pray for those needing support. Just show up or >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays 4:00-5:00pm (join anytime) | Where: Fowler Conference Room
Leader(s): Anna Dale and Robin Anderson
WEDNESDAY WOMEN’S GROUPS
Ruth and Esther by Kathleen Nielson | “The books of Ruth and Esther recount two of the most moving stories in all of Scripture: Ruth, a displaced widow in search of a new home and loving husband, and Esther, a courageous queen intent on saving her people from imminent destruction.” This guide explains the biblical text with clarity and passion―leading us on a journey to discover the God who hears the cries of his people and remains faithful to his promises.” We hope you’ll join us on a journey to discover the God who hears the cries of his people and remains faithful to his promises. Invite a friend! Please RSVP to Frances Howell at (901) 410-7440 with your name and number of children needing childcare, including their names and ages, by 9/18 or until it is full. >CLICK HERE to register online.
When: Wednesdays 9:20-10:20 am (begins September 27) | Where: Spitzer Building, Room 302
Leader(s): Frances Howell
Invitation to Psalms: A short-term DISCIPLE Bible Study by Michael Jinkins | “Make a deeper connection to the world of the Psalms so that these well known scriptures can help you give voice to all aspects of our human experience—joy, faith, uncertainty and sorrow.” Free childcare provided upon RSVP by 8/28 or until it is full. >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays 9:30-10:30 am (September 6) | Where: Zeanah’s Home
Leader(s): Caitlin Zeanah
Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis | Originally given as a series of broadcast talks during the Second World War, Lewis explains Christianity to those who might be skeptical, offering a philosophical approach to understanding basic Christian doctrines. >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays 5:00-6:00 pm (beginning August 30) | Where: Spitzer Building, Room 302
Leader(s): Christine Gale and Klair Kimmey
Topical Bible Studies | A year-round, lecture-based group that goes deep into Scripture and includes a time of fellowship and prayer. >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays 6:00-7:00 pm (join anytime) | Where: Via Zoom
Leader(s): Fran Dotterweich
Sarah Young Book Study | If you are looking for a casual, kid-friendly group, then this is the one for you! >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays 6:30-7:30 pm (beginning August 30) | Where: Saunders’ Home
Leader(s): Erin Saunders
WEDNESDAY COUPLES GROUP
New! Becoming Disciples through Bible Study | An overview of the Old Testament where all the major themes are covered. The goal is transformation more than information. This is a great review for those needing it, or it can serve as an introduction to foundational Scriptures for others. Join us for a simple supper, fellowship, and study. >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays 5:45-7:00 pm (beginning September 6) | Where: Spitzer Building, The Loft
Leader(s): Mark and Karen Lampley
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY GROUPS
Subjects include various Bible and topical studies. These are hybrid groups, so you can attend in person or online via zoom using the weekly emailed link. The Thursday group is for men twenty and up. The main focus is on books of the Old and New Testaments, yet a study on “Characters of the Bible” will begin this fall. >CLICK HERE to register for either study.
When: Thursdays from 8:00-9:00 am AND Fridays from 7:00-8:00 am
Where: Hybrid (Chick-fil-A, Bearden / Zoom)
Leader(s): participants rotate
WOMEN WALKING IN THE WORD
Join a small group that meets weekly for a Bible Study and a short or long walk. The fellowship is awesome. Groups can be very casual, sometimes even meeting over coffee! >CLICK HERE to register.
When: Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:00 a.m.
Where: Locations vary
Leader: Susan Hyde (Wednesday) | Bonnie Marret (Friday)
SOUL TREKKERS Co-Ed HIKING CLUB
We will offer hikes of varying lengths and difficulty each month. Most will be kid-friendly and some will even be pet-friendly. CLICK HERE for more information.
When and Where: Days, times, and locations vary
Coordinator: Mark Lampley, mlampley@sequoyahchurch.org
CLICK HERE for brief video
FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions about L.I.F.E. Groups. If you have further question, contact our L.I.F.E. Groups Coordinator Klair Kimmey at kkimmey@earthlink.net.
WHAT IS A L.I.F.E GROUP?
A L.I.F.E. Group is typically made up of 8-15 people who meet weekly to share, study, and support one another. A trained leader will host each group. An average meeting lasts an hour.
WHEN AND WHERE DO THEY MEET?
Groups meet on various days and nights of the week at the church (some meet off site). Meeting times vary depending on the needs of the group.
HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?
Each L.I.F.E. Group session lasts 8 to 12 weeks. We have Fall, Winter & Spring sessions. At the end of each session, you will have the choice of staying in the same group, trying a new group, leading a group, or even taking a break. Most Small Groups do not meet July through August.
WHAT IS THE REQUIRED COMMITMENT?
Joining a L.I.F.E. Group requires a 8 to 12 week commitment to attend weekly meetings and do the homework (if applicable) ahead of time. Obviously, allowances are made for sickness, vacation, work conflicts and other special events. This commitment is the key to a strong L.I.F.E. Group.
WHAT ABOUT CHILDCARE?
The church provides childcare for some groups. This will be listed under the group description.
HOW DO I CHOOSE A GROUP?
When selecting a group, we strongly recommend you choose a group based on its leader, the day and time of the meeting, and the type of group that will best help you grow in your current season in life. Most groups do best when members share a common interest with their leaders and other group members.
SAVE THE DATE:
WOMEN’S ADVENT BY CANDLELIGHT
November 28, 2023 | 7:00 p.m.
WOMEN’S RETREAT 2024
March 2 – 3 at DreamMore Resort in the Smokies
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LUNCHEONS
9/14: The Knoxville History Project with speaker Mary Pom Claiborne
10/12: RV Adventures with speakers Joe & Helen Bruner
11/9: The MayFlower with Former UT Professor Dr. Carl Pierce
12/7: Holiday Meal with The SHEEP Chorus
1/11: Restoration House speaker
2/8: Bird Courtship and Pair Bonding with speaker Stephen Lyn Bales
3/14: SHPC Missionaries with speakers Kent and Dianna Koebke
4/11 & 5/9: Information coming soon
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Camping
When? – October 27-29, 2023
Where?– Big South Fork Bandy Creek Campground, E-1 Loop
Cost? – $60 per family covers your campsite, firewood, and four meals
Want more information? Check out the SHPC CAMPING BROCHURE
Join our Hiking Club!
Everyone is welcome on all hikes. There is also a club component to challenge us spiritually, similar to how a hike can challenge us physically.
Membership requirements and qualifications: Go on one club “sponsored” hike. Sponsored hikes = 1 mile or more | Memorize a new-to-you Psalm (or any 1 chapter of the Bible)
Click HERE for more information and list of scheduled hikes. To sign up for a hike, email Pastor Mark at mlampley@sequoyahchurch.org
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Adult Ministries
HONORING THE SABBATH: The following are a few resources that can help us better understand about how “to honor the Sabbath and keep it holy” from the Ten Commandments (Exodus chapter 20). Mark invites Sabbath discussion with anyone who is interested before, during, or after his summer Sabbatical (May 22- August 3).
- Alan Fadling’s Unhurried Life,
- MaryAnn Dana’s Sabbath in the Suburbs,
- Walter Brueggemann’s Sabbath as Resistance,
- Marjorie Thompson’s SoulFeast (especially chapter Reclaiming Sabbath Time: A Sacred Art of Ceasing)
- Wayne Muller’s Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in our Busy Lives
Getting Spiritually Fit:
- Prayer to Welcome the Sabbath
- Sabbath Scriptures
- Reflections on Sabbath
- Sabbath Books and Resources for Further Study
- Celebrate Baptism
- Keeping the Sabbath (Part 1 of 2)
- Keeping the Sabbath (Part 2 of 2)
- BEING Still
- SPIRITUAL FITNESS- Find a Deserted Place
JOY Fellowship (Adults 55+): The committee meets on the second Monday of every other month at 12:30 p.m. in Room 232 to plan events to make sure that all our members are busy and connected.
- The Church & Community Fellowship Luncheon is on the second Thursday of every month (Sept-June) at Noon in the Fellowship Hall. The luncheon features a health issues speaker every other month.
- Monthly Outings provide great opportunity for fellowship.
- The Monday Movie Matinee is the fourth Monday of every month (except for holidays) at 3:00 p.m. in the Multi-Media Room of the Spitzer Education Building. All adults are welcome! Light refreshments will be served.
- Blood Pressure Screenings are taken by our Parish Nurse on the second Sunday of every month at 9:30 a.m. and Noon in the Reception Room. Members and neighbors are welcome to call Laurette Beekman in the church office (522-9804) to set up an appointment to have their blood pressure taken during the week.
SHPC Young Adult Ministries includes those in college, graduate school, young professionals, and families with young children. College-age adults are welcome to join us in worship and Sunday school.
- The Presbyterian Center at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UKirk – U for Universty; Kirk is Scottish for Church) is part of a national network of campus ministries of the PC(USA). Just a few miles from SHPC, it offers weekday collegiate Bible studies, services, events, and much more! Click HERE for more information.
- SHPC believes strongly in the need for young adults to connect with one another regularly in fellowship and faith. Young adults gather weekly in worship, Sunday school, Bible study, fellowship, and service. Events include swim parties, supper clubs, sporting events, and picnics. Service is age-oriented and includes Operation Backyard each spring and inter-generational outreach such as food and housing service. Some ministry opportunities are designed for couples, while others are more child-friendly so there is something for everyone.
- Young Adult Volunteers: If you are under 30 and would like to serve for a year, either nationally orinternationally, click HERE for more information.