“Nobody can force the soul of a community. The only possibility open is to create conditions in which the community can freely develop and discover the ways that lead to redemption.” - Henri J.M. Nouwen, Creative Ministry

Community Groups exist to promote spiritual development and community life within Christ Church. As the Apostle Paul so beautifully articulates in his epistle to the Romans, we believe that the living worship of God results in a loving community among the disciples. Community Groups gather as result of our desire to live a shared life of community. We hope that you will be intentional about getting involved and letting people into your life. Community Groups are a very good way to begin life together.

What is a Community Group?
A Community Group is a small group of people who gather regularly to share life and build community. These groups substantiate and promote the overall spiritual health of our community. These relationships create conditions for individuals to experience the transformational truth of the Gospel.

Why do Community Groups exist at Christ Church?
Community Groups exist because we believe that community life flourishes among people who are intentional about reading scripture together, sharing meals together, praying together, laughing together and crying together. Community Groups are the result of people being intentional about practicing the disciplines of a communal life.

Why do we value community life?
Christ Church values community life because we believe that redemption happens not only in the life of an individual, but in the life of a community. We believe in a God that exists, creates, redeems and restores in community. And as believers in that Trinitarian God and as followers of his Word, we confess our need for community and our belief in a communal understanding of all things including life, faith, Scripture, redemption, worship, and God himself.  

How do Community Groups fit into the fabric of Christ Church?
Community Groups represent the philosophy and theology of Christ Church, as mentioned above. Community Groups are neither the core of our community life nor remain at the margins, but rather small groups fit in tightly along with our worship services, community life gatherings, mentoring, and service projects to create the mosaic of Christ Church ministry and help represent the holistic mission of our Christian community.

What do Community Groups look like at Christ Church?
Communtiy Groups are a hybrid of a typical dinner party and a typical bible study. Community Groups are simply people meeting together in homes to share life and build community. A Community Group will usually be made up of guys and girls of various ages, backgrounds, schedules, and lifestyles.

What is the place of meals in a Community Group?
The place of meals in a Community Group is crucial. Each group should be intentional about frequently sharing meals together. We share faith through breaking bread. Life lived together happens naturally at the table. Our groups should be committed to this fruitful discipline.

How long should a Community Group last?
There is no set tenure for a Community Group. Although there are seasons in life (natural seasons, school semesters, 12 months, etc.) that should not be overlooked. Some groups function best on a semester cycle, others on an annual cycle. Some run perpetually and do fine. This is a contextual issue needing to be resolved within individual Community Groups. Each group should be watchful over itself and be aware when its season has ended.

What is a good size of Community Group?
There is also no standard size for a Community Group. Seven to ten people usually works best. It is sometimes difficult to facilitate discussion and get feedback in a group with fewer than seven people. And it is often difficult to center the discussion and stay focused in a group with more than ten. Again, this is a contextual issue needing to be resolved within individual Community Groups. Each group should be watchful over itself and be aware when it’s time to evolve (divide) or gracefully refer others to neighboring small groups.

What is the first step in getting connected to a Community Group?
The best thing to do is to contact us here and indicate that you are interested in attending a Community Group. Your contact info will be forwarded to the leader of a small group in your area. Then that leader will contact you will the details (when/where the group meets) and will help answer any questions you may have. Or you may simply show up to any of the current groups; you will warmly welcomed!

Do I have to be a member of Christ Church to attend a Community Group?
No. Attending a Community Group is a good way to get to know our church. This will give you a chance to meet people and better understand our church’s beliefs and practices. Community Groups provide a casual environment for you to get acquainted with Christ Church.

Do I have to be a Christian to attend a Community Group?
No. Community Groups also serve as a helpful forum for you to ask questions about Christ, faith, scripture, and theology. Community Groups are a good first step for people on a new journey of faith.

What should I do if I cannot attend regularly?
We still welcome you to come. Many of us have busy schedules; many of us travel for work. This is one reason Community Groups are an important element in the life of a church community. Intentionality and regularity help fight against our propensity towards isolation. Getting together once a month to share a meal and read scripture is better than not getting together at all.

Click here to see a list of our current Community Groups.

If you have any other questions please contact us here.