Bible Studies & Small Groups
Christians grow best when they worship together, grow through study and small groups and serve amongst our neighbors. We encourage you to look through this list of small groups and studies and get involved. If you’re already active in worship, let’s take the next step and grow together.
Most of our Bible studies and small groups run for about six weeks in either the fall or spring. Sunday School classes for all ages meet every Sunday at 9:40 a.m. We also encourage everyone to "band together" and become part of a small group. Groups can be as small as three people, and you can meet in person or electronically. Learn more about banding together
THE BASICS OF CHRISTIAN APOLOGETICS
A Foundational Course in Defending and Understanding the Christian Faith
Led by Shane Stanford
Wednesdays, 6 p.m. - September 30-November 4
Room 303
Christianity has never asked people to leave their minds at the door. Throughout Scripture, God invites His people to seek truth, ask honest questions and grow in wisdom. Christian apologetics is the thoughtful defense of the Christian faith — not to win arguments, but to remove barriers that keep people from encountering Jesus Christ.
This course provides a practical introduction to the foundations of Christian apologetics. Participants will explore the historical reliability of the Bible, the evidence for God's existence, the historical case for Jesus and His resurrection and thoughtful responses to many of the questions people ask about Christianity today.
Designed for both new believers and mature Christians, this course emphasizes
that apologetics is ultimately about loving God with our minds and loving our
neighbors enough to answer their questions with grace, humility and truth.
THE RUTHLESS ELIMINATION OF HURRY
Led by Julie Collins & Larry Hilliard
Sundays, 5:30 p.m. - September 13-27
Room 303
Corrie ten Boom once said that if the devil can't make you sin, he'll make you busy. There's truth in that. Living as a spiritually and mentally healthy follower of Jesus in our technological, calendar-driven culture is quite difficult. We experience disconnect from God, from other people, and even from our own souls. So how can we stay spiritually alive and emotionally healthy in the chaos of the modern world?
Using John Mark Comer's book, "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry," we'll explore practical, personal and challenging calls to imagine new ways our lives can imitate Jesus.
WALKING GROUP
Facilitated by Susan Eaton
Mondays, 6 p.m. - September 14-October 19
106 Hillendale Drive, Hattiesburg
There are so many health benefits of walking, and walking with others will also lead to some great emotional and mental health benefits as well!
So, if you want to get moving in a safe and healthy way that’s also a lot of fun, join Susan and friends for six weeks of walking!
WOMEN OF THE NEW TESTAMENT
Led by Susan Eaton
Mondays, 10:30 a.m. - September 14-November 2
Room 303
As a general rule, women had fewer rights, social status and power than men in the ancient world in which the Bible was written. But Jesus regularly defied these social conventions, fulfilling his mission and purposes through faithful women and giving them dignity and purpose.
Join us for an eight-week Bible study as we explore the lives of remarkable women in the New Testament whose faith, courage, persistence and devotion helped shape the early church. Together we'll discover how Jesus restored dignity, purpose and hope to those often overlooked by society — and how their stories continue to speak to our own calling as disciples today.
Whether you're familiar with these biblical women or meeting them for the first time, this study will deepen your understanding of the gospel and inspire you to follow Christ with greater faith and boldness.
Men's ministry burger & fellowship
Led by Sid Collins
Monthly at different restaurants
All men are invited to this laid-back fellowship group led by Sid Collins. Each month, you’ll gather at a different restaurant for burgers and good conversation. Feel free to invite a friend! You’ll enjoy getting to know other men better and trying out some good food around town.
prayer shawl ministry
Led by Tina Arrington
Mondays at 1 p.m.
Atrium
Knit or crochet a prayer shawl or lap robe for those who are experiencing difficult times and circumstances. All skill levels and both men and women are welcome to participate.
sanctuary choir
Led by Greg Fuller
Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Choir Suite
The choir welcomes you to serve with them in sharing the gift of music and facilitating a worshipful experience on Sunday mornings and at other special services. The choir provides a supportive environment for members, cultivates mentoring relationships with student singers and remains supportive of other ministries at Parkway Heights. If you are looking for a great place to belong, consider becoming a part of the Choir Ministry.
United Women in faith
Jennifer James, president
United Women in Faith (formerally United Methodist Women) focuses on women, children and youth; acts for justice; and transforms communities. UWF has two circles (small groups) that meet as part of the overall organization. The Bevill/Vickery Circle meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. in the Fireside Room, and the Outreach Circle meets on the first Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. in the Fireside Room.