Deepening Our Connection to the Advent and to “the Vine”
Starting in 1998, my husband and I belonged to several different small groups over the years. We loved the fellowship and learning from others. The deepening of our faith as husband and wife was transformative during that time. Our boys got older and activities took priority, and before we knew it we were no longer members of a group.
Independently, I’ve always belonged to different Bible studies around town. However, just before Covid I found myself feeling less and less connected to the Advent. I attended church regularly, but now our boys had all graduated high school and I felt something was missing. I was feeling lonely… disconnected.
In the fall of 2020, I decided to join a women’s small group. The past three years have been filled with highs and lows. Our group navigated Covid, loss, personal struggles, and the trials our church family faced. However, we celebrated many joys too, such as engagements, weddings, and babies all in the midst of praying and studying God’s word together. There was a depth there I had missed. I found the connection I was seeking to regain, not only with other Advent members, but with God again. Jesus tells us he is “the vine” and we are the branches. Apart from him we will wither. I encourage you to join a small group and let the Advent be more than worshiping on Sundays. A small group will strengthen your connection to the Advent and, most importantly, deepen your connection to “the vine.”
– Elizabeth Fitzpatrick
If you would like more information about joining a small group this fall, please fill out the interest form at AdventBirmingham.org/SmallGroups.