Jim's Story

March 18, 2025

Jim

At Sherwood Park Alliance Church, we believe that life is best lived in community. God designed us to grow in faith together, encouraging and challenging one another as we follow Jesus. Jim is someone who lives this out. He leads two life groups that meet weekly, creating a space where friendships form, faith deepens, and discipleship happens in meaningful ways. In his own words, Jim shares the heart behind these groups and a glimpse of how God is at work.



I’m privileged to be the leader of two life groups that meet on a Tuesday and Thursday evening. Each participant in both groups have some form of cognitive and/or physical disability. The goal in creating these life groups was to nurture relationships while creating disciples among them. Looking back the past couple of years of these two groups' meetings. I am amazed to see the tremendous growth of each group member over the past years; from their increased confidence to their ability to share thoughts and opinions. Not to mention the friendships that have formed as they lovingly tease each other on occasion!

Recently two group members shared an interaction they had with some people outside of the group on secular views which contradict God's word. This interaction demonstrated God's work as I believe that the Holy Spirit was at work in these two members since the interaction was handled with such grace. This interaction was shared later with both groups and it was an opportunity for both classes to support each of the participants involved. There were tears , anger, and love flowing in the room! As a group, each class was able to spend a lot of time sharing their opinions and reflect on how Jesus would have handled this situation.
Stories like Jim’s remind us that God is always moving in and through His people. When we step into community and invest in each other’s lives, we experience the power of discipleship and the beauty of belonging.

If you’re looking for a place to grow in faith alongside others, we’d love to help you get connected.
Learn more about life groups at Sherwood Park Alliance Church and find your community today.

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