The opening line of the mission statement for St Matthews is “Moving together” … but how do you get a large congregation to move together and reflect the love of Christ? The starting point has to be getting to know each other, and developing friendships; only then can we be a community where each person is cared for and valued, and a sense of belonging is fostered.
It is with these thoughts in mind that the link group structure was developed. Taking advice from other churches that have adopted similar structures we have 4 link groups that seek to invite and involve everyone who considers themselves part of St. Matthews. This includes young and old, active and housebound, regular attenders and spouses who perhaps only want to come to social events. Each link group has a leadership team, who in turn are supported by the link group facilitators.
Started in April 2002, link groups meet for social events that enable members to get to know each other. This is then a starting point for pastoral care—learning to look after each other, in practical, emotional and prayerful ways. All events are by invitation, so involvement is very much ‘at your own pace’.
Each group is loosely affiliated to a house group; however, you do not have to attend a house group to belong to a link group; nor do you have to go to the house group connected with your link group. If you want to join a house group, please contact us.
If you would like to be part of the link groups at St.
Matthews, or simply want to find out more, please speak with
Jackie; if you wish, you can email her on