What are Grow Groups?
At Light of Christ UMC, our Grow Groups are designed to be spaces where community and transformation take root. We desire to be a place where all people—regardless of background or experience—can come with their questions, their stories, and their longing to belong. These three categories—Inclusive Faith, Active Love, and Kin-dom Work—reflect the heart of our mission: to nurture an inclusive faith and live out active love.
While each group may focus on a particular theme, we recognize that our journey with God is rarely linear. Faith, growth, and justice often overlap, weaving together in surprising and beautiful ways. That’s the nature of an expansive, ever-unfolding Divine story—one that invites us to explore, to wonder, and to grow together in community.
We hope you will join us!
Upcoming Grow Groups
To learn more about upcoming Grow Groups, check out the registration page on Church Center.
Still have questions? Click the button below to email our team, and we will help you connect!
Next Steps:
A 5-Week Grow Group Led by Taylor Whitley, Sundays at 9:30 AM in Room 104.
Have you ever wondered about pronouns, why they matter, or how to show up better for the people around you? This theologically grounded, five-week study explores gender-inclusive language through the lens of scripture and the Wesleyan tradition — moving us from uncertainty to faithful, grace-filled practice.
All are welcome! Come ready to learn, ask questions, and grow.
People & Pronouns
Upper Room
Ongoing, Thursdays 11:30-12:30
This hybrid group is led by Pastor Marianne and meets every Thursday at 11:30 pm in Room 104. You can also join via zoom by emailing marianne@locumc.org
Registration not required!
Watercolor Painting
May 16, 23, and 30 9:00am-11:00am
Take a breath and make some art. This three-Saturday watercolor class is designed for beginners and anyone seeking a creative, relaxing break from daily stress. We’ll explore simple watercolor techniques inspired by nature, enjoy quiet creative time, and rediscover the joy of making something with our hands. No experience needed, just come as you are.
Primetime Cookout
Saturday, May 30, 4:00
Come enjoy good food and fellowship with friends, age 55 and over, for a cook-out at John and JoAnn McMillan's home. Bring a side or dessert to share.
Mondays at Middle James
Mondays, June 1 - August 17, 6:00 pm
Join us every Monday, June 1 - August 17, for food, fellowship, and drinks. See you at 6 PM in the taproom at Middle James! No registration is necessary; come when you can.
Contact tracy@locumc.org if childcare is desired.
The Ragamuffin Gospel Book Study
Thursdays, June 23 - August 13, 11:30-12:30
Are you bedraggled, beat-up, burnt-out?
Most of us believe in God's grace--in theory. But somehow we can't seem to apply it in our daily lives. We continue to see Him as a small-minded bookkeeper, tallying our failures and successes on a score sheet.
Yet God gives us His grace, willingly, no matter what we've done. We come to Him as ragamuffins--dirty, bedraggled, and beat-up. And when we sit at His feet, He smiles upon us, the chosen objects of His "furious love."
Gardening Ministry
Spring planting season is rapidly approaching. We need a group of volunteers to help plan, prepare our beds, plant, and care for our community garden.
Sign up to let us know that you are interested and we will reach out to you.
Volunteers do not need to be church members, just have an interest in gardening.
I
Coffee and Conversations
Coffee & Conversation with Pastor Marianne - A conversation about important faith questions. Attend as you are able this summer!
Location: Starbucks at Stonecrest (beside the Crumbl shop)
Sunday, June 28th - Why is God so hidden and seemingly silent?
Wednesday, July 8th - How can I walk with God through pain/suffering?
Sunday, July 19th - What does the Bible teach about judgment and hell?
Wednesday, July 29th - Aren't we better off without religion?
Sunday, August 9th - Does Christianity claim to be the one true faith?
Wednesday, August 19th - Why are so many Christians homophobic/transphobic?
Sunday, August 30th - How should Christians respond to the injustices and divisions we are facing?
Top 10 Events of the Bible
Mondays, July 20 - August 17, 7:00-8:30 pm
Join Pastor Marianne & Lisa Ballard for a study on the Top 10 Events of the Bible. We will study 5 major events of the Old Testament and 5 major events of the New Testament, which give us the overarching outline of the Salvation Story. Bring your Bible and meet with us in Room 104 of our Phase 1 Building for five consecutive Monday nights. If you are traveling during one of the class sessions, a Zoom option will be available so that you can still join the class.
