Life Groups are smaller circles within our bigger church that keep us connected in meaningful relationships to be known, present and faithful. It’s how we do life together. Whatever stage of life you are in, we have a group for you.
Groups are a place where people can be known, present, and faithful to God and each other.
Where we risk opening up and letting people into the dark places where we hide. This is a step by step process of growing in trust with people and with God. With growing vulnerability brings more opportunity to taste of God’s love through His Spirit and His people.
We want to be a safe place for others to risk being known. We want to listen well, pursue each other, and be redemptively curious about the lives of others as we’re open to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
God never gives up on us. We want to follow his example and not give up on others. Sometimes we hurt each other – whether we mean to or not. But God is up to something good in the midst of our trials and conflicts. We want to be a church that is committed to loving one another, even when it’s hard. That begins by being dedicated and showing up to the group
You will get to know other people and have an opportunity to build meaningful relationships. You can grow spiritually as you study the Bible together and apply its truths to your life. You will not be alone in your struggles and challenges. Groups provide opportunities to pray, serve, encourage one another and to grow in Christ.
As helpful and important as it is for you to receive support, community, and discipleship in a small group, God has gifted you to help your group too. Group membership is mutually beneficial: you are helped by your group and you help your group by bringing yourself to them. While there may be one leader, each group member is an important part of the group and has something unique they bring to the table.
We have groups for all ages and stages of life. We also offer support groups for those navigating adoption, healing from a divorce, or grieving the loss of a loved one.
Eight to twelve people are typically in a group, including leaders. Support groups can be larger.
Groups typically meet in homes in the evening, usually for 2 hours. Most groups meet every other week. Support groups meet weekly for a determined time.
Groups often begin with refreshments and casual, social time. They study the Sunday sermons or a topic that is relevant to spiritual growth. Groups seek to build truth over time, sharing struggles and joys so they can pray for, encourage and grow with one another toward Christ. Confidentiality is a priority.
Within the first three to four meetings, group members discuss and come to a mutual agreement about the purpose and values of their groups. But, not every group is the right fit for everyone. Processing this with the group leader is an important first step to addressing concerns about the small group. If adjustments can’t be made, sometimes another group is the best choice for you.
In addition to serving one another within the group, our small groups serve in our local church ministries, bridge-building events and the community. Groups are assigned a global partner to pray for and support through cards and emails. Groups are encouraged to participate in the Mission of Magnify by serving locally together.
Small Group Leaders are those who follow Jesus and have been trained in Small Group Leadership. They sometimes come through groups organically or they are appointed by the church. Small Group Leaders are expected to lead a life worth following. They may not be biblical scholars or professional counselors, but they care deeply about the things of God. They are accessible to the group, caring and curious. They are humble, teachable, intentional and willing to lead the way.
Our church’s mission is “Always Making Disciples” and we believe we our small group leaders are an essential part of that disciple-making team. If you’re interested in becoming a leader, please reach out to someone on our small groups team to have a conversation about what that will look like to be interviewed, trained and deployed to leading a group.
To join a group or ask a question contact either Trent Heaton, Director of Small Groups and Men’s Ministry or Kathryn Jones, Adult Small Group/Men’s Ministry Admin.
Small Group Leaders are those who follow Jesus and have been trained in Small Group Leadership. They sometimes come through groups organically or they are appointed by the church. Small Group Leaders are expected to lead a life worth following. They may not be biblical scholars or professional counselors, but they care deeply about the things of God. They are accessible to the group, caring and curious. They are humble, teachable, intentional and willing to lead the way.
Our church’s mission is “Always Making Disciples” and we believe we our small group leaders are an essential part of that disciple-making team. If you’re interested in becoming a leader, please reach out to someone on our small groups team to have a conversation about what that will look like to be interviewed, trained and deployed to leading a group.
We are currently updating our Group Leader Training curriculum and will be offering classes to potential and new group leaders beginning in September 2022.
