The homegroup leaders gave some thought to various questions relating to the direction that the church is going as a whole, the place for small groups and the commitment that people wish to make to the group. Out of these times came a decision to look for leadership training for the existing group leaders and also for those who God is calling to take more responsibility in this area. This has now been arranged and will be taking place in the Emmaus Centre on 24 April 2004.
The New Year started strongly with 4 new groups making their mark. The 20's + group has unfortunately disbanded with the departure of Andy & Kathy.
Alpha continues to be a real blessing to the church and the September course saw a new group formed from the course.
The various group leaders continue to meet 3 times a year to pray, share ideas, resources and to look towards the future. These are a time of real encouragement. Each group continues to set it's own agenda whilst looking towards a common goal.
Tapes, books and videos are available for groups, in order to assist study.
One of our successful social evening is on Shrove Tuesday when we enjoy an evening together whilst feasting on pancakes with a variety of fillings.
It is plain for all to see that St. James The Great has grown from a congregation, where everyone was able to meet in the church and know everybody else, to a congregation which, at times, cannot fit comfortably into the St. Barnabas Centre. Whilst I thank God for those people that He has brought into our midst, I am conscious that some of us may feel lonely in a crowd, when everyone else seems full of joy. I regret that it can be too easy, on a Sunday, to miss those who need a bit of encouragement, whilst we are engaged in hearty conversation with others.