The Priesthood/Home Cell Ministry organises small groups of believers who meet in homes to pray, study the Bible and care for one another. It puts into practice VBCI’s value of Biblical Community (small groups).
Why Home Cells?
From the very beginning, the church met both in large gatherings and in homes. Believers in Jerusalem went to the temple together and also broke bread “from house to house” (Acts 2:46). Sunday services are important, but in a large congregation it is easy to remain a face in the crowd. A home cell makes church personal: people know your name, notice when you are missing and pray for your real needs.
What Happens in a Home Cell
- Prayer – sharing needs and praying for one another by name.
- Bible study – reading Scripture together and discussing how to live it out.
- Fellowship – friendship, encouragement and practical care in times of need.
- Outreach – inviting neighbours and friends into a warm, informal setting.
The Priesthood of Every Believer
The name of this ministry reflects a biblical truth: every follower of Jesus belongs to “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). In a home cell, ordinary believers minister to one another – they pray, encourage, teach and serve. This fits VBCI’s values of lay ministry and continual learning, and it helps the church grow people to maturity.
Home cells also help new believers settle in. Questions that feel too small to ask a pastor after a service can be discussed openly over a Bible and a cup of tea. Over time, members of a cell become like family – celebrating birthdays, visiting the sick and standing together in prayer.
Find a Home Cell Near You
Home cells are organised by local congregations and meeting details vary from place to place. Visit a VBCI branch near you and ask about joining a cell, or use our contact page. To learn more about the benefits of small groups, read Home Cell Groups: Why Small Groups Help You Grow in Faith.