Small Faith Sharing Groups 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Lenten Small Groups

What are small faith-sharing groups? Small faith-sharing groups, composed of 6-12 people, are parishioners who make a strong commitment to come together weekly at one another’s homes or at the parish center to share their thoughts and experiences, utilizing written materials related to our Catholic faith.
When will the groups begin?  Startup is the week before Ash Wednesday, meeting six times to finish before Holy Week. It is hoped that the meetings will take place between February 17 and April 5.  
How long will the meetings last? Meetings will last from 1.5 to 2 hours, giving time for prayer, sharing, announcements, and fellowship.
Why have groups in parish neighborhoods?  To make it easier to connect with fellow parishioners who live nearby; to reach out and invite Catholics who may no longer come to church; to welcome new people into the parish by inviting them to the small group; to experience the warmth of a home environment in learning about our faith.
Can I join a group outside my neighborhood? Certainly! Even though we are focusing on neighborhood groups, we are also striving to make these groups available on different days of the week and at different times, so that you can choose a convenient time for your personal schedule, even if the group you choose is not held in your neighborhood.
What materials will be used?  The groups will be utilizing materials from Loyola Press, themed on the Gospel of St. Mark, the patron saint of our parish and the first written Gospel, and designed for six weeks of study.  Book is entitled: Getting to Know Jesus. You will find the materials simple and user-friendly. The book has an easy-to-follow structure and the down-to-earth approach. The cost for the book is $10, with payment at the first meeting.  
Will the facilitators be trained to lead the groups? Facilitators and hosts will have a workshop on February 16 at 11:30 am in the Parish Center that will provide what is needed to create a positive experience.

Saint Mark the Evangelist

What will be the benefits ? The small groups have great potential for building stronger community within our parish, and they have proven value in deepening the spiritual growth of those who participate.
How do I sign up ?
1) using the sign-up sheets in back of church,
2) using the sheet in the bulletin and placing in offertory basket, or
3) contacting Sister Madeline, 980-1810, ext. 3 or at stmarkpa@bellsouth.net.