FellowshipThis ladies (mainly) Bible Study has been active for about 15 years. We study a variety of topics including books of the Bible or a subject from the Bible such as prayer or women of the Old Testament. Visiting missionaries are occasional guest speakers. The group meets shortly before 10:00 to settle pre-schoolers with the baby-sitter and for coffee and fellowship, followed by prayer and study until 11:00. The women range in age from early 20's to late 80's, single, married, widowed, with some attending regularly and some when they can. The spiritual and community growth which develops by studying God's word together is invaluable. The atmosphere of trust and confidentiality within the study group makes new members feel welcome, and helps sustain a sense of support and accountability to one another in our Christian growth.
The Brotherhood is a
ministry for the spread of Christ's Kingdom among men and
youth. We are a group of men that usually meet every second Saturday for
breakfast, prayer, Bible study and discussion. All men are
welcome. Some of the seventeen members and five or six
associate members are from Churches other than St. Thomas'.
Mothers Union is a group of women from
various churches who get together monthly to hear
speakers, fellowship with each other, and encourage each
other to bring up our children in the faith and life of the
Church. Our aims include helping women experiencing
adversity, and as such, we have supported the women's
shelter for several years. Through muffin sales, yard sales
and hosting luncheons, we also support a missionary who has
opened an orphanage for children in Madagascar.
St. Thomas' has one active ACW group. The Evening Group has 30 members who meet seven times a year. The main money raising project is the annual bazaar, but fund raising is also done by catering showers and small weddings and selling church calendars. In addition to the enjoyment of sharing, fun and fellowship, members of the group also take part in preparing meals monthly at the Shelter House; visiting in hospitals and seniors homes, helping at Mission to Seaman; sending cards to sick and shut-in members of the parish; assisting at funeral receptions; helping raise funds for Camp Gitchigomee; taking part in Deanery meetings and activities; and supporting youth groups.
The home fellowship groups which have begun to meet are family-like groups where members commit to create places to know and be known; to learn, grow, mature and be accountable in the Christian life; to give and to receive support, understanding and encouragement; to experience loving, trustworthy relationships; and where personal needs are shared and responded to. Groups are presently meetingevery second week at four homes. Please call the church for more information.
St. Thomas' Church
embarked on a new evangelistic program in the Fall of 1997
called the Alpha Course. After attending a conference in
Ottawa, members of the Church set up the course. It has
been well received and accepted. A growing task force of
enthusiastic helpers and leaders is enabling St. Thomas' to
meet the needs of a growing number of people, both churched
and unchurched, who are attending the course. Alpha is a 10
week practical introduction to the Christian faith aimed
especially at people who don't go to church. It is held in
the evening and includes a meal, video presentation and
discussion in small groups. It provides an environment
where each person can feel free to ask or express whatever
they wish. A team of around three or four "leaders" or
"helpers" from the host church are attached to each group.
There is also a weekend away during which the subject of
the Holy Spirit is addressed.
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