How We Fellowship
What Fellowship Means
Fellowship is meant to be more than just a name for Shalom. It is a vital element of our life together. As the body of Christ we worship together, serve together, walking together in many chapters of life. It is our intention to be more than just a church meeting together for faith and worship, but to be family living with each other, celebrating life's joys and mourning life's losses. We are by no means perfect at this. As with any family or group we fail often. But in hospitality and hope, we strive to always be in fellowship, support and commonality with each other.
This sense of fellowship manifests itself in many ways. We enjoy visiting with each other and have frequent pot lucks and parties just to spend time together and to have greater opportunity to know each other. Like many urban congregations, we are often welcoming people coming and sending people on their way, and we try to do so intentionally. Many at Shalom spend time together in small groups to enjoy each other's company for both social and spiritual support. In many ways and at many times, we endeavor to be a welcoming hospitable congregation for all who come through our doors.
Children of Shalom
Shalom is an intergenerational community. Children are most welcome at Shalom. We have as much to learn from our children as we have to teach them about life. We value their input and love their whole-hearted enthusiasm, high-spiritedness, pointed questions, and unedited honesty. Children are both seen and heard in worship, as efforts are routinely made to involve and connect them with people of all ages.
The nursery is generally staffed for younger children who need more movement during the service. Babies are also very welcome, with accommodations for nursing and cribs provided.
Sunday School
For children K-8, we presently offer a regular Sunday School lead by many members of the congregation. At present, we do not have demand for youth classes or youth group, though we are at the ready to offer activities as need arises. We look forward to initiating more youth activities as our population expands and changes.
Adult Sunday school is often self-organized and self-directed, as interest arises. There is 'Second hour'- a conversation time following the service for conversation about the service, current events, or issues of mutual concern. Additionally, traditional Adult Sunday School is organized by individual passion on a wide variety of topics, books, and bible studies.
Small Groups
At Shalom we believe our Christian faith and beliefs must extend to all aspects of our lives. Small groups at Shalom represent an opportunity for members to share joys, concerns, activities, dialogue, learning and interactions in an informal and more intimate setting. The format and structure of these groups varies depending upon the needs and wishes of the participants. One group might participate in book studies or Bible study. Other groups may be focused on a particular topic, certain age groups, a geography or a specific set of members.
When people join Shalom they are encouraged to consider whether participation in a small group would help strengthen their faith journey. If so, you have the opportunity to work with like-minded individuals to craft a small group that specifically meets your needs.
Shalom Event Sampler
Here are some events, both formally organized and not, which are often happening around Shalom and with Shalom folks.
Camping: October traditionally brings the annual Shalom Campout, normally held at Catalina State Park. Fun is had by all, with the potlucks, talent show, bonfires, s’more-making, laughing, singing, worshipping, etc. The campout generally starts on Friday evening and ends with an on-site Worship Service on Sunday morning.
Potlucks: The Fellowship Committee generally puts together a potluck on the first Sunday of each month. It is typically a ecclectic collection of dishes brought to share. Sprinkled throughout are special Themed Potlucks, such as the Valentine's Party, the International Meal and cook-off competitions.
Hiking: Tucson is surrounded by excellent hiking opportunities! While there is not planned times to hike together, small groups often get together and head up into the mountains.
Ultimate Frisbee: Sunday afternoons are often times for a game of ultimate Frisbee open to all.
Shalom Work Days: Several times a year the Property Commission hosts a Shalom Workday. It is a fun way to get the upkeep of the building and campus accomplished.
