Spiritual Formation

Dallas Willard Wrote:

"Spiritual formation in the tradition of Jesus Christ is the process of transformation of the inmost dimension of the human being, the heart, which is the same as the spirit or will. It is being formed (really, transformed) in such a way that its natural expression comes to be the deeds of Christ done in the power of Christ.


The progression of spiritual formation is outlined in various passages of the New Testament. It is most fully spelled out in II Peter 1: “Now since you have become partakers of the divine nature,” the writer says, “applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge; and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness; and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love.”

Formational Journey Groups

Being a church that believes in transformation

At Penrith Church of Christ, we believe no one is meant to walk the road of faith alone. Scripture paints a beautiful picture of shared journeying — “Two are better than one… if either falls, one can help the other up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10) and “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). Following Jesus is a communal path, where we learn, grow, and encounter God together.


That’s why our Journey Groups exist: small, safe spaces designed to help us pay attention to God’s presence in our everyday lives. Each group is built on trust, vulnerability, and deep listening — values reflected in our shared commitment, where participants agree to be present, speak from the heart, honour silence, ask honest questions, and uphold confidentiality. As one line from the agreement puts it, “Trust comes from knowing that group members honour confidences and take seriously the ethics of privacy and discretion.”


These groups aren’t about fixing each other — they’re about creating room for the Spirit to guide, heal, and shape us. They’re places where we can bring our doubts, fears, joys, and longings, and discover the abundant life Jesus promises in John 10:10.


If you’re longing for deeper connection, spiritual formation, and a community that journeys with you, Journey Groups are a beautiful next step

If you would like to find out more, or would like to get involved, have a chat with Matt

Want to Connect?

Which Journey Group is best for me? Let us introduce you to the Journey Groups.....

If you want to go deeper and know more about any of the Formational Journey Groups, please reach out to Matt at Matt@cofcpenrith.org

  • Men’s MEAT & EAT Journey Group

    The Men’s MEAT & EAT Journey Group is a monthly gathering where men of all ages come together to share food, conversation, and faith in a safe and trusted environment. Rooted in the Journey Groups commitments, we create space to be present, speak honestly, listen deeply, and honour confidentiality — allowing each man to bring his real story without pressure or pretence. As we meet on the first Monday of every month at Matt's House in Emu Plains, we explore what God is doing in our lives, ask open and honest questions, and encourage one another in the way of Jesus. It’s a place to slow down, connect meaningfully, and grow alongside other men who are seeking the abundant life Christ promises. If you want to know more about this Journey Group, then Matt is the person to speak with on 0439 407 148

  • Men’s Older Journey Group

    The Men’s Older Journey Group is a trusted, reflective space for older men who have walked many seasons with Jesus and want to continue growing in community. Meeting on the second Wednesday of every month, this group offers a slower, deeper rhythm — a place to share stories, listen well, and pay attention to God’s presence in everyday life.

    During the colder months, the group meets at our Church Hub on Coombes Drive, gathering around a warm meal and meaningful conversation. When the weather warms, the group shifts to a member’s home, creating a relaxed, welcoming environment where wisdom, experience, and faith can be shared freely.

    Grounded in the Journey Groups commitments of trust, vulnerability, deep listening, and confidentiality, this is a space where older, wiser men can bring their real selves — their questions, their hopes, their history — and journey together in the way of Jesus.

  • New Journey Groups Coming Soon

    We’re excited to share that new Journey Groups are on the way. As our church continues to grow in connection, discipleship, and spiritual formation, we’re preparing additional spaces where people can slow down, listen deeply, and pay attention to God’s presence in their everyday lives. These upcoming groups will follow the same trusted commitments that shape all Journey Groups - being present, speaking honestly, honouring confidentiality, and creating safe environments for real spiritual growth.

    Stay tuned as we prepare to launch these new groups soon. We can’t wait to see how God uses them to bring people together and lead us further into the abundant life Jesus promises.