By guest blogger Teri Hyrkas

Brainstorming, vision-casting and creativity filled the family room at  Betsy and Richard Wergin’s house at the Small Group Ministry gathering (also known as -SEGUE-) last Tuesday.  As relationship-building experiences from past small groups were recalled and shared, we were inspired by the way God has used small groups of ALL types to be a source of new friendships, encouragement, acts of service and growth in Christ. As the small group stories were told that night, I couldn’t help but compare those many and varied groups that were being described to Jelly Belly jelly beans; partly because jelly beans are well, small, but also because there is such a variety of Jelly Belly flavors and colors, just as there is a rich assortment of small groups. It also occurred to me that folks probably hesitate a bit before they try one of the many flavors of Jelly Belly jelly beans, but after they eat one, they are hooked. Might this also be true of people who have been involved in small groups? It certainly can appear daunting at first to join up with a group of people you don’t know well, and begin the process of sharing time with them. But, if last week’s gathering is any indication, once you have joined with others in a small group setting, you’re hooked!
One of the purposes of -SEGUE- gatherings is help to showcase the amazing variety of small groups. Throughout the summer, those interested in leading small groups will be meeting every other Tuesday as we decide which ‘flavor and color’ small group God would have us lead in the fall. We’d love to have any one interested in leading a small group join us at any time during the summer! Come and learn with us that the blessings that spring from leading and being a part of a small group can be as sweet as candy.
The next date for the Small Group Ministry gathering is Tuesday, May 11, from 5:30 – 7:00pm at John and Teri Hyrkas’ house. Phone 763-856-2115; thyrkas@gmail.com. A light dinner will be served. We’d be delighted if you would bring a small group book, program or other resource to share with us!