On Friday nights, over 400 jr. high students gather in smaller "cell" groups. Somewhere between  eight and 20 students meet in a home every other week for a more in-depth study of Scripture, interesting discussion and group prayer. These same sex cell groups usually have two or three adults of the same sex leading the group. Currently, there are about 45 Cell Groups, mostly in north Columbus. Generally, if there are adequate volunteers, God is able to multiply the number of cell groups each year.

The cell group environment creates an atmosphere where students can learn more about the Bible, how it applies to their lives, feel comfortable asking questions, and bring their friends, many of whom are un-churched.

The Teaching Portion

Cell groups are taught and led by committed adults; however, we encourage students to try their hand at teaching the Bible for their friends.  And if a student shows the desire and ability to do so, he or she may get to teach in front of the larger Blow Out meeting in a team teaching format. Since the cell group is smaller and made up of friends, students tend to be more open and willing to discuss both spiritual matters and the things going on in their own lives. Also, cell groups provide greater opportunity for adult workers to get more involved in the lives of junior highers.

The Recreation Portion

After maybe an hour of study, discussion and prayer, the whole group goes out for merriment. Late night "Commando Team Tag" is popular among the boys' cell groups. Sometimes they reserve the Calumet School gym and  play  basketball or Killer Dodge Ball. Occasionally, the boys will have video game competitions on the big screen or  create their own "basement video."  The sky is the limit. It's fun to see their creativity.

  The girls often hit the road and play "Big Better Best" or "Dine Out." Other popular activities with the girls are roller skating, putt-putt, or just going out to a movie.

Occasionally, cell groups will wreak havoc on other cell groups.  Beware, all kinds of things have been witnessed flying through the air during these raids.  Joe's cell group is known for their mischievous "kidnapping" of other cell group students. Of course if you kidnap, you must demand a  hearty ransom  of snacks from the other cell group. Whatever the activity, we usually have a blast.

At the end of the night, we drive the students home, and it is here that many a good discussion takes place.