Growth Groups

Growth Groups

Growth Group Leader Resources

What is a Growth Group?

A Growth Group is made up of 8-14 people who meet weekly at members’ homes to study, to share, and to support one another in their Christian lives. Each group is led by a qualified leader. A typical meeting lasts for an hour and a half.

Which Group Should I Join?

We suggest you join a group based on your “life stage” rather than on geography or the most convenient night of the week. We’ve found that a group works best when you share common interests, backgrounds, marital status or similar aged children. Frankly, sometimes it might take two or three groups before you find the perfect fit. But don’t worry, you’ll find it!

How Long Does a Group Last?

Each Growth Group session lasts 10 weeks. At the end of each session, you have the choice of staying in the same group, trying a new group, or taking a break. Formal sessions do not take place mid-June through August, though some groups continue to meet informally or socially through the summer. Groups are encouraged to complete one service project together per year.

What Is the Required Commitment?

Joining a Growth Group requires a 10-week commitment to attend the weekly meetings. Obviously, allowances are made for sickness, vacation, work conflicts, and other special events... but not much more! We have found that this commitment is the key to strong relationships and healthy groups.

What About Childcare?

Growth Groups are for adults only (exceptions are made for nursing newborns). We leave it up to each family to work out their own childcare. Sometimes it works best for families to share a sitter or to swap childcare with another family whose group meets on a different evening or time.

What Will We Study?

The studies are based on the previous weekend’s sermon. Most of our Growth Groups are built upon what we call a “Lecture-Lab” model. If you imagine the weekend sermon as a lecture on Christian living, then the group meeting is a lab where you get to roll up your sleeves and discuss how the sermon works out in real life. Bible passages and thought-provoking questions provide the basis for the discussion.

How Do I Sign Up?

Church wide sign ups begin at the start of each new session (in September, January, and April). You can also view a list of groups and sign up on our website. Those who are new to the church (start attending in the middle of a session) can sign up and join any group that has openings without waiting for the start of a new session.