Why Do Small Groups Exist?
Small groups have one, simple purpose: to bring people together. We believe God created us to live in relationship with others and only then can we live the full life He intends for us. Sharing life through community is part of our design, but meaningful relationships aren’t always easy to find. That’s why small groups exist—to make these life-changing relationships relevant and accessible to you.
What Are Small Groups?
A small group is an intentional gathering of people where you can connect with others on a regular basis who share your interests, who are at a similar stage in life, or who have experience in an area where you would like coaching.
Why Should I Join a Small Group?
It is through doing life together that our problems become smaller and God uses others to bring healing, support and encouragement to our lives—whether we realize we need it or not. Your small group will quickly become a place where others don’t just know your name, but care about what is happening in your life.
Important Dates
NEW YEAR SEMESTER STARTS - Febuary 5th, 2018
SUMMER SEMESTER STARTS - June 4th, 2018
FALL SEMESTER STARTS - October 1st, 2018
FAQs
1. WHAT HAPPENS AT A SMALL GROUP MEETING?
You’ve probably seen small groups meeting and not even realized it. A small group looks like friends at lunch, teams playing basketball, or people studying a book or topic of interest. At its core, a small group is a small gathering of people, and it is less about what you do and more about who you do it with. By participating in small groups, you can expect to connect with others through a common activity, engage in life giving conversation and request prayer.
2. HOW OFTEN DOES A SMALL GROUP MEET?
Our small groups meet for three semesters a year—winter/spring, summer, and fall. During the semester, most groups meet once a week. Small groups are meant to bring meaning and community into the flow of your life so even if you can’t attend every, single meeting, there is still great value in joining a group.
3. WHERE DO SMALL GROUPS MEET?
Small groups meet in places like homes, parks, restaurants, coffee shops and office buildings. The leader of the group selects a meeting spot that best fits the purpose of the group. Small groups happen throughout the state of Virginia with the largest availability in the Lynchburg, Roanoke, Salem, Madison Heights, Bedford, Charlottesville, and Forest areas.
4. HOW LONG DOES A TYPICAL SMALL GROUP STAY TOGETHER?
Most small groups meet for a semester. This way, new people can join groups easily and regularly. Also, the semester format allows you to try multiple groups each year. As relationships form, some groups choose to stay together for consecutive semesters, but new members are always welcome.
5. IS THERE CHILDCARE AVAILABLE?
Childcare varies from group to group. When you search our directory for a group, the group profile will indicate if childcare is available.
6. WHAT IF I DON’T LIKE THE FIRST GROUP I TRY?
The truth is, not everyone will find the best fit with the first group they try. This is why we encourage you to select a few groups that interest you, contact the leaders and try out a couple different groups before choosing the best one for you. The simple strategy to finding success in small groups is to not give up. We believe there is a group that is right for everyone—including you!