Strengthening faith and building community......

One of the most vibrant parishes where I have worshipped recently is the Cathedral Parish of Saint Andrew in Singapore... One of the elements contributing to its life is the existence of parish 'cell groups'...

It seems that in the landscape of the Church, one of the most impactful and effective ways for its members to grow in their faith and build meaningful relationships is through Parish Cell Groups (PCGs)..... Gathering in small groups provides spaces where individuals can connect, share meals, reflect on Scripture passages, pray and support one another in their spiritual journey..... They typically consist of around ten members providing an intimate environment where participants can build solid relationships and feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, struggles and joys...   Parish Cells can be formed on the basis of geographical closeness (suburbs), interests (eco focus, crafts), spirituality (Cursillo, meditation), or preexisting parish groups (Mothers' Union, pastoral care, etc)...

Apart from the personal growth of members of Cell Groups, the potential exists for evangelism and outreach... Relational evangelism works best in Parish Cells... Members of Cells have unique opportunities to cultivate relationships with unchurched people. Through its relationally based outreach, members of Cells manifest the life of Christ in a bonded community of Christians, evangelism is easier and more enjoyable... As a group, they have the potential to support neighbours, friends, and extended family members and offer a practical witness of God's love in the world.....

Life in a Parish Cell Group enables personal gifts to be identified and developed... Under the guidance of a Parish Leadership Team,  PCGs can be nurturing spaces for personal growth in spirituality, leadership, evangelism and service... As in a human body, healthy cells combine to create an energetic, life-giving person..... so in a Parish, vibrant Cells combine to enable the Parish to bring life and the love of God to the World around it...