There are many forces in this world trying to control our attitudes, decisions, and lives. Like gravity, they relentlessly pull at us! Join us this Fall for a 4-week series of 1-hour small group conversations. Together, we’ll
explore Tom Berlin‘s (short) book “Defying Gravity”, and discuss how we can break free to live and love more generously like Jesus.
The book is short and easy to read. So, come along on this church-wide small group experience as we grow in faith together and also connect to more people at Manchester UMC! Beginning the weekend of September 28/29, Manchester UMC’s worship sermons will relate to the four chapters of the “Defying Gravity” book. The combination of sermons and book content will give all groups lots of healthy discussion opportunities.
We are offering daytime and evening small group options on nearly every day of the week. Complimentary childcare is also available for most Defying Gravity groups.
We realize that most of us have busy schedules, so know that it’s okay if you need to miss some of the 4 sessions (no judgement) – just sign-up, get the book and attend as you are able. You’ll be glad you did and it might just change your life!
Discussion Topics
Over 4 sessions, your small group will discuss these relevant topics:
• Discovering Gravity
• Breaking Free
• Tethered to God
• When We Get It Right
Pick Up the Book
Anyone can purchase a copy of Tom Berlin’s book at the Information Center (in the church lobby) on Sunday mornings or by contacting Tiffany Conway in the church office during the week. You may also choose to download an e-version of the book from your favorite online bookstore.
Choose A Small Group
Browse the below list of Defying Gravity small groups to find one that fits your schedule. (If you’re already in a small group, we celebrate your involvement! If you’d like to lead your own small group for Defying Gravity, please let us know and we’ll be glad to help you get started.)
| DAY OF WEEK | TIME | START DATE | LEADER | LOCATION | CHILDCARE |
| Sat. | 5:15-6:30 PM | Sept. 28 | Rev. Stephanie Lendt | 311 | YES |
| Sun. | 9:30-10:30 AM | Sept. 29 | Mark Irving | 311 | Sunday School |
| Sun. | 9:30-10:30 AM | Sept. 29 | Rev. Brenda Becker and Rebecca Peterson | 223 | Sunday School |
| Sun. | 9:30-10:30 AM | Sept. 29 | Bill Cleveland | 309 | Sunday School |
| Sun. | 9:30-10:30 AM | Sept. 29 | Mary Beth Harper | 222 | Sunday School |
| Sun. | 10:45-11:45 AM | Sept. 29 | Rev. Dave & Dianne Bennett | 141 | YES |
| Sun. | 11-Noon | Sept. 29 | Rev. Winter Hamilton | 222 | YES |
| Mon. | 10-11 AM | Sept. 30 | Herb Walker | 223 | YES |
| Tues. | 9:30-11 AM | Oct. 1 | Rev. Brenda Becker | 223 | YES |
| Tues. | 10-11 AM | Oct. 1 | Rev. Dave & Dianne Bennett | 311 | YES |
| Tues. | 7-8 PM | Oct. 1 | Mark & Susie Lashly – This Group is Full. Please join another group. | 223 | YES |
| Wed. | 9:15-10:15 AM | Oct. 2 | Rev. Winter Hamilton | 221 | YES |
| Wed. | 4:30-5:30 PM | Oct. 2 | Rev. Winter Hamilton | 106 | YES |
| Wed. | 6:30-7:30 PM | Oct. 2 | Rev. Andy Bryan | 133 | YES |
| Wed. | 7-8 PM | Oct. 2 | Jim & Sue Belval, Bob & Penny Klebe | 141 | YES |
| Thurs. | 9:30-10:30 AM | Oct. 3 | Rev. Nancye Dunlap | 220 | YES |
| Thurs. | 6:30-7:30 PM | Oct. 3 |
Autumn Dennis & Nicki Reinhardt-Swierk | 221 | YES |
| Sat. | 9:30-10:30 AM | Oct. 5 | Rev. Phil Estes | Good News* | NO |
*Off-site location address: Good News, 2886 Hwy. 94 South, Defiance, MO 63341
Sign-up For Your Defying Gravity Small Group
Please register for one of the above small groups by completing the below form. Please complete one form per individual. Childcare reservation closes 7 days before the start date. If you have questions, please contact Pastor Jim Peich or Tiffany Conway.
Consider inviting a friend to join you on this life-changing journey!