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Grow In Your Faith

Banding at The Woodlands Methodist Church is a practice aimed at nurturing spiritual growth and community among its members. These small groups, inspired by John Wesley’s vision, provide a space for three to five same-gendered people to gather weekly and share their spiritual journeys, support one another in prayer and encourage personal introspection. By cultivating an environment of openness and accountability, banding helps members deepen their relationship with God and each other. It’s a foundational aspect of our church’s commitment to nurturing faith and encouraging genuine connections within our community.

Why Banding Matters

"We know that there was a reason why we were there. We know that God was delivering a message to us."

"You will grow in your walk with Christ as a result of this process. I promise you that."

Get Connected

Band Entry

FAQ

Simply fill out the banding registration form. This works if you already have your group members, have one group member but need additional, or are looking to start a brand-new group. After filling out the form, our team will reach out to you to set up your first meeting.

Banding groups of 3-5 same-gendered people meet weekly. Meetings open with prayer, and then each person answers three basic questions: How is it with your soul? What are your struggles and successes? How might the Spirit and Scriptures be speaking in your life?

After each person shares, one person prays for the person who just shared. If and when members are ready to go deeper, they can consider two additional questions: Do you have any sin that you want to confess? Are there any secrets or hidden things you would like to share?

Continue until each person has had a chance to work through the questions and has been prayed for. Groups can then close the meeting in prayer.

There are seven commitments to consider when forming a banding group:

  1. Respect the clock: Do your best to share within 15 minutes.
  2. Challenge by choice: You have permission to skip a question at any time.
  3. No cross talk: Don’t give advice or interrupt.
  4. One Counselor (come, Holy Spirit): Listen and pay attention to how the Holy Spirit might prompt you to pray.
  5. Comfort with empathy: Hold space for others with open hearts. Rather than offering pity or sympathy, show up and tune in — bless, encourage and build up.
  6. Community of grace: When someone confesses sin, pardon by saying, “In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven.” If someone shares a secret, thank them for their courage and never judge.
  7. Strictly confidential: Never share another person’s comments outside of the group.

Any questions? Contact us.