Small Groups
Get Involved with Small Groups
We are forming and continuing several small groups as a way of doing prayer together and building community. These small groups are fluid and not established. This means you can join at any time and come frequently or occasionally. Join a small group and make some new friends, join some old friends and do prayer with a renewed spirit. If you’d like to establish a new small group, contact one of our Pastors, Julie Kline or Matt Weiler: jkline@umc-kzo.org or mweiler@umc-kzo.org. Small groups will continue to form and existing small groups will share current plans.
1st Stitchers
Our dedicated group of stitchers recently resumed their in person meetings! They meet in the Fellowship Room most Thursday mornings from 9:30am-12pm. They cut, layout and sew small quilts for those in need of comfort within our community and talk to support each other on life’s journey. All material and sewing equipment is provided. They also have yarn in our cupboards and on occasion have knitters (or crocheters) join them making hats or dish cloths. They would love to welcome others. Come when you can and stay as long as you can. Contact Linda Lueth or Ellen Portis if you have any questions (request their contact information through KalamazooFUMC@umc-kzo.org).
Biking Beautiful Kalamazoo
Join our biking small group as we explore the trails around Kalamazoo this summer. All trails are out and back , usually flat and under 10 miles round trip. We are not competitive, only out to enjoy God’s nature and beauty with fellow riders. We will meet most Monday evenings at 6:30pm beginning June 20 and through August 29. If you would like to be on a group email please let Dawn Wheaton know at dawheaton53@gmail.com. Rain or inclement weather at start time will cancel a ride.
Chancel Singers
If you love to sing and would like to join us, we welcome you. Rehearsals are typically on Thursday evenings from 7:15-8:30pm, though are mostly on hiatus for the summer. Please contact Jackie Stilger at jstilger@umc-kzo.org for more information.
Children and Families Ministries
Join our family fun events! Stay tuned for upcoming event information and contact Julia with any questions at jlibrizzi@umc-kzo.org.
Cuppa Inspiration on Facebook Live
Cuppa is an informal way in speaking of a “cup of tea.” Join Pastor Julie on Wednesdays at noon for a “Cuppa Inspiration.” This is a short, small group experience that is interactive on our Facebook page.
Dawn Patrol
We are a diverse group of men who meet on Wednesdays at 9 AM in the church parlor. Our goal is growing in an understanding, not only of what it means to be a follower of Jesus in a divided world, but also what Christians are called to do to help bring an end to systemic racism that still harms so many People of Color. We are currently taking our time reading through the Pulitizer Prize winning The 1619 Project. We also are weaving in the 6 video documentaries on Hulu about this project. Anyone who desires to join this weekly men’s group should contact Dick Shilts at dcshilts@hotmail.com to have your email added to the notification list and to receive the meeting link.
Family Foundations
This group for parents with small children meets most Sundays after worship (during the school year) in Room 304 on the third floor of FUMC Kalamazoo. During the summer, they move outside for yard fellowship most Wednesday nights from 6-8pm (though times do vary based on host schedules). Please bring a chair and water bottle for each person in your family and a snack to share! Contact Julia at jlibrizzi@umc-kzo.org for upcoming locations and to learn more.
KLUMP (Kalamazoo League of United Methodist Players) Softball
KLUMP softball’s 2022 season is now underway and games will take place Thursday evenings from June 16 through August 11, 2022! All ages 13+ are welcome to play! And all church members are welcome to come watch and cheer on the team! Contact Jay Gross at jaynlaura5@gmail.com with any questions and for additional information.
Manna
Young adults are invited to gather with Pastor Matt and Mandakini Brophy most Wednesdays at 6:30pm for “Manna.” In the Bible, Manna represents God arriving to a people who were yet discovering who they were. Manna was God’s provision. Manna was God’s way of teaching a people how to live and be together. Manna was preparing them for the journey ahead. Our Tuesday nights are like Manna! Email Pastor Matt at mweiler@umc-kzo.org to learn more.
Praise, Pickleball and Prayer (3P’s Group)
Thanks to all who joined for praise, prayer and pickleball during summer 2021. This group is currently on hiatus and we’ll share any updates in the future.
Walking Group
Due to summer schedule conflicts, this group is currently on hiatus. Email Tammy Eaton at teaton@kcsa.org if you are interested in taking part when walks resume.
Yoga
Join us for yoga and prayer on Wednesday mornings at 8am on Zoom. This yoga is for every-body. It is most often a gentle session that stretches our bodies and reminds us to breathe. This is a video led session from popular yoga websites. If you are interested in connecting with this class, email Pastor Julie at jkline@umc-kzo.org.