OCF Directory

Our primary tool for OCF members to find fellowship is the OCF Directory. This Directory is useful only if our members keep fellowship opportunities visible and up to date.

The OCF Directory has a very specific purpose: It is for members to find other members so that they stay connected in Christian fellowship during TDY/TAD visits, seek lodging when traveling, and jump right into an OCF group at new assignments.

It is also used by OCF staff and volunteers to help initiate linkups and handoffs for anyone who wants help answering the question, “Is there fellowship at a specific location?”

Small Bible study groups develop resilient, maturing Christian believers who grow in their ability to integrate faith into every area of their lives. Lifelong friendships are developed, comfort and encouragement are found, and family bonds are built within small communities sharing the Word and life together.

Bible study groups gather in dorm rooms, barrack spaces, tents, homes, base facilities, ships, and everywhere two or more open the Word of God together. Some Bible studies continue in virtual spaces among friends who have long since moved away from one another. These gatherings nourish and equip the saints as well as develop community relationships.

Bible study allows the Holy Spirit to comfort us and to apply the work of Christ to our lives and situations. We are humbled when we consider God’s greatness, and we are convicted regarding persistent sin. We need the salve of the Word when walking through suffering.

Opening the Bible shows us Jesus, the word of God, “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

Few people outside of the military understand our situations fully, so there is great comfort in others who listen to us as we share using a common military language. Who better to pray for and encourage you than someone who is on the same mission, experiencing similar op tempos and stresses?

Some people show up to a Bible study carrying a heavy load. They are tired and sometimes discouraged, and their faith may be struggling amid pressure. Others arrive full of such enthusiasm that their spirit can be blessedly contagious.

No matter how someone walks into Bible study, your priority is to work for their refreshment, encouragement, and preparation so that they can be sent back out to serve the entire military society. Small spiritual depots should exist around the world, fueling the saints for new spiritual work.

Members need a safe Bible study environment to share with vulnerability and honesty, to wrestle over how to live faithfully, and then to receive the prayers of fellow saints.

More information about small groups can be found within the OCF Handbook.