A new year of groups

For many people September is the real start of the year: children go back to school, routines return and so do our family groups. If there is a good moment to take this step, it is now. Registration for the new year of groups is open.

Family groups are the simplest way to belong to Vida Lisboa. They do not replace Sunday’s celebration, they complete it: it is in homes, during the week, that people know each other by name and accompany each other in real life.

What a family group is

It is a small group of eight to fifteen people that meets in a member’s home every two weeks. The evening begins with a light meal, followed by conversation around a Bible text and ends with prayer for one another. There are groups with children and adults-only groups, and each has a leader and a host.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (Acts 2:42)

You do not need to know much about the Bible or theology. You need a desire to listen and to share. Newcomers are always welcomed without pressure, and can try a group for a month before deciding.

Where and when

We have groups in several areas, so there is always one near you. This year they meet in:

• Loures Centro and Santo António dos Cavaleiros
• Sacavém and Camarate
• Odivelas
• Lisbon (Olivais)

Times vary, but most meet on Wednesday evenings, around 8:30 pm. When you register, we will tell you the nearest group and the exact day.

Questions we are asked

Do I need to be a church member? No. The groups are open to anyone who wants to get to know us, and many people start here before coming to the celebration. What about children? Groups with families always have a space for them, with a responsible adult. Is there a cost? None: we only ask that each person bring something to the table when they can.

What if I do not like the group? You can change without any explanation. We want everyone to find a place where they feel at home, which is why we advise trying it for a month before deciding. If you have any other question, write to us.

Groups pause in August and at Christmas, and always resume with a fellowship evening to welcome newcomers. It is the best time to start: everyone is starting again at the same time. And if you come with a neighbour or a colleague, even better: a group is always easier to try with someone else.

How to register

It is very simple: write to us on WhatsApp at +351 928 246 519 with your name and the neighbourhood where you live, or talk to someone on the team on Sunday after the celebration. Someone will reply within a few days, with the group and a first evening agreed. If you do not know which to choose, we will help. We look forward to seeing you and your family.