Here at Morning Star, we realize the importance of small groups to the health of any church. We are excited at the growth that we have seen in our small groups over the past year or two. What is a Cell Group? Well, the name is taken from the name science has given to the smallest individually viable unit of a living thing, but to us, it is a small weekly gathering of about 12-15 people that meets in the home of someone in the church. It is a low-key, laid-back meeting that is very conducive to personal ministry, prayer, teaching, and encouragement. The intimacy that we gain by being a part of a Cell Group cannot be matched in the larger corporate worship services, and it allows us to be more at ease, let down our guard, and allow the Lord to minister to us, and through us.
Sunday morning is the one time each week when our whole church gathers together for a worship celebration. We meet at 10:00 a.m. for worship and to be instructed by a teaching from the Word of God. This message is typically shared by our Senior Minister, though from time to time, others may share with us as well. During the ministry of the Word, our children in grades K-5 participate in Children's Church. Nursery services are also provided for those that are younger.
First Sunday Celebration - Shakeout SundayThis is a special gathering on the first Sunday of every month. We take communion together as a body, and we bring our "Shakeout Sunday" offering during the worship portion of the meeting. How did the Shakeout Sunday offering get its name? A few years ago, the church was able to procure a quantity of small "piggy banks" in the shape of globes. These banks have been distributed to anyone who wants one. Throughout the month, people unload all of their loose change into the banks, and then on the first Sunday of the month, we bring them up front and "shake them out" into a large metal bowl during worship. The noise of loose coins hitting the bowl adds to the level of joyful noise already present, and we are blessed by blessing others. The proceeds of the Shakeout Offering go directly toward the various missions we support. Finally, after each First Sunday Celebration, we gather together to partake in a family meal, "pitch-in" style. Here on this page are some pictures of our September First Sunday Celebration.
