In many churches nationwide there are age groups which tend to fall between the gaps. There are programs for the young and the old alike which serve a wonderful purpose in the church. But what of the people in between those stages? What of those individuals too old for youth group and too young to be fully vested and comfortable in whatever small group or adult Bible study is available at their home church? Some find like-minded Christians upon entering college, yet some never do. Others enter the workforce and are unable to make some of these connections and become lost and feel as if they don't belong to any particular group. All too often we see this dilemma played out all around us. Promising young Christians move from their known, protective church life into the real world. They begin to work in a world that does not generally share their Christian viewpoints. In addition, these individuals now do not have programs that cater to their needs, so they are not receiving the Biblical teaching that they so crave. In 2005 some of these young Christians realized that there was not a ministry which fed individuals in their age group at their home church. They decided to "shop around" to find a church with a program that had young, career-oriented Christians in mind. After realizing that many churches had the same problem in meeting the needs of their age group, these individuals sat down to take a long, hard look at how to fill this gap. They started with three goals in mind. The first goal was to hold weekly Bible studies. In these bible studies the members of the group would take turns leading, and everyone wishing to would have opportunity to participate in group discussion and to voice questions. The second goal was to appoint certain times for works-based ministry: to aid in the helping of those in need and to share Christian testimony through acts of kindness throughout the community. And the third goal was to focus on prayer in such a way as to help grow the prayer lives for everyone involved in the Koinonia ministry. Although Koinonia was originally established to provide solely for the needs of Berean Bible Church, our vision to provide new ministry opportunities for young adults has grown to encompass those in their 20's from outside churches who have found that they too have fallen through the age gaps in church ministry. Here at Koinonia we know that today’s young people are tomorrow’s church leaders. Our goal is to do our part and to equip ourselves for church ministry in whatever capacity God calls us to. Our Bible study is not a substitute for attending Sunday service at our respective home churches, but more it is an opportunity to make a difference with the time that we have been given today. We study the Bible in depth, digging deeper week by week. We challenge ourselves to preach the Gospel through our actions as well as our words and to keep each other accountable as we continue to grow in the Lord. Koinonia has become a place of Christian fellowship. The Bible Study meets every Friday night in Pottstown, PA. Doors open at 8PM to allow for time to fellowship and to unwind. The lesson begins at 8:30PM and is led by various members of the group. The lessons are presented in a casual and relaxed environment allowing an opportunity for everyone to speak and ask questions. Biblical accuracy is stressed and the Scriptures are heavily referenced and explored. In addition to the Bible study, Koinonia members spend a great deal of time together through frequent dinners and activity/fun nights. Other activities among the various members include volleyball tournaments, theme parties, rock climbing, laser tag, camping, beach trips, snowboarding, disc golf, as well as many others. In addition, Koinonia hosts events with other groups including praise and worship concerts, evenings of prayer, volunteer work weekends, and mission trips overseas. Koinonia is a group that strives to grow its members through teaching, fellowship, ministry, and love. We have already seen many lives change through the blessings and power of Christ and look forward to the continued growth of the group. If you are interested in being a part of this family, please feel free to contact any of the leaders.
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