At CUMC we believe the goal of a Christian is to become and grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ. We believe a disciple of Jesus is one who is committed to following Jesus (head); is continually being changed by Jesus (heart); and is committed to the mission of Jesus (hands). Becoming a disciple is a lifelong process that can be compared to a journey on a path leading to a deeper relationship with God.

We believe if you strive for continual GROWth in knowledge and action, not only will your life be better, but so will your community and the world. We have "trail markers" on the "Pathway to Discipleship" to help you make intentional choices to enhance and deepen your spiritual growth. These aren't sequential, but are meant to help you see different opportunities for CUMC Adults to grow in faith. The trail markers include:

1. KNOWING GOD - Involves knowing God personally. It is a "heart" connection with God. These opportunities help you establish a solid relationship with God and Jesus as you grow on the Pathway to Discipleship.

• Coffee with the Pastors
• ALPHA - Exploring the meaning of life
• Explore CUMC - Basic Membership Class
• A Disciple's Path - Understanding your membership vows and exploring the gifts God has entrusted to you.

2. GROWING IN GOD -  Opportunities to learn and grow in our "head" knowledge and understanding of God, and opening ourselves to the transforming power of the Holy Spirit to deepen our faith. In addition to the "knowing" options, engage in one of the following options. Many of these options begin each session (winter/spring, summer and fall). Some classes are short-term (6-8 weeks) and others are longer-term.

• Disciple I, Covenant Bible Study or Christian Believer
• Bible Studies
• Life Groups
• Small Groups
• Topical Studies
• Book Groups
• Sunday School
• Involvement in welcoming, serving on a team, or other responsibility at CUMC
• Share in a ministry through CONNECT

3. SERVING GOD - Leads disciples into the "hands" to use how and what we know about being a disciple to touch the lives of others in need, and assume leadership roles in a variety of settings. In addition to the "knowing" and "growing" options, participate in one or more of the following, or an equivalent.

• Leadership Training
• Mission Trips (SERVE)
• Volunteering in our local community (SERVE)
• Retreats

4. GOING DEEPER -  In addition to "knowing," "growing," and "serving" options, participate in one or more of the following or an equivalent.

• Disciple II, III, IV
• Jesus in the Gospels
• Training Seminars within the UMC Annual Conference
• Classes and events from the Center for Spiritual Development

We have many opportunities that can help you GROW in your faith and discipleship.

Take time to evaluate where you are with your "heart," "head," and "hands" relationship with God. View our Pathway to Discipleship document.

Then plan to take a step forward on the Pathway to Discipleship.

If you have questions about the Pathway to Discipleship or the opportunities please contact Christina Benson at chrisbenson_6@comcast.net or 448.6812/258.4115. We would be happy to provide a mentor to guide and help you on your journey.