Groups Ministry
We are a church of Groups not just a church with a Groups ministry.
God designed us to grow spiritually together and to love one another in our everyday lives.
We do that in community as we inspire, challenge, and care for the members of our tribe.
More About Groups
What’s the Big Deal About Groups?
A lot of people know that churches offer small group ministries and want people involved in them…but why?
There are at least three key reasons why Groups matter…
We Are Created for Community
God created us not just to want people in our lives. He created us to need one another; we only truly grow spiritually when we grow together. It all started when He made us in His image…
Genesis 1:26-27
God is communal/relational (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) and we are made in His image, which means we are relational. Without others in our lives, we simply fall apart. We need people in our lives to grow spiritually and they need us in their lives.
1 Corinthians 12:12-27
We are only the Body of Christ when we are living together in community.
Jesus Was in a Group
You could even argue that Jesus was in the first modern Group, and it was all His idea. Jesus selected 12 men to life with. He literally lived with them 24×7 and helped them learn and grow to be more like Him.
Luke 6:12-13
The Gospels are really a record of this Group that lasted for 3 years.
Jesus walked with them.
Jesus lived with them.
Jesus taught them.
Jesus took care of them.
If it was good enough for Jesus, isn’t it good enough for us too? If Jesus needed it and modeled it, we should follow Him.
The Church Started in Groups
Before there were church buildings and church programs, the church met in small groups in people’s homes–to talk about God’s Word, prayer for one another, eat together, and take care of one another.
Acts 2:42-47
The early church was made up of small groups. Literally everyone was in one. Groups have never been a ministry of the church–they ARE the church. What happens on Sunday is simply small groups coming together to all worship and learn together, but real spiritual growth and community happens outside of the Sunday morning service. Sunday serves to help the church groups (not the other way around).
“Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near. “
– Hebrews 10:24-25
How Do I Get Involved in a Group?
It’s actually pretty simple. We have Group sign-ups for the entire church a couple of times a year (usually at the beginning of the year and again in the fall when school is heading back into session).
We have a Groups Sign-Up Page where you can find a group that meets at a time and place that works best for you.
And we usually have a Group specifically for people who are either new to the church or new to Groups (or both). Everyone in this Group is in the same boat so it’s a great place to start and meet some new people at the same time.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long are the Groups sessions?
Each Groups session usually lasts 12 weeks, but some Groups may be slightly longer or shorter depending on the study they are doing. Each Group page will clearly indicate how long each group meets.
Can I bring my kids to Group?
That depends on the Group. Some Groups are “kid friendly” and some Groups ask that you find an alternative for your kids. Each Group will clearly indicate if kids are included in the Group dynamic or not.
Will I be asked to Pray or Read?
You might, but we certainly aren’t going to pressure you right from the start. The point of Groups is for everyone to be engaged, invovled, and learning to be the best Christ Follower they can be. If you’re new to Groups, don’t worry about this one…when the time is right you’ll be ready and comfortable.
When do Groups meet?
That varies widely and there are usually options to fit your busy schedule. Some Groups meet on Sundays to accommodate busy week schedules. Others meet during the week to allow for time with families on Sunday afternoon. You can find a Group that works for you and your family.
Where do Groups meet?
Again, this varies. Some Groups meet at the church while some Groups meet in homes (and some even at parks, restaurants, and coffee shops). Some Groups meet in Parker while others meet in Elizabeth. There is usually a Group that meets at a place you’ll feel comfortable.
How big are the Groups?
We try and keep Groups under 12 people so that everyone can be involved and be cared for. There are sometimes exceptions to this, but only for a very good reason. Some Groups are much smaller than this–with the average Group having 6-8 adults.
What if I'm new to the church or never been in a Group?
We know that joining a Group that’s been meeting together for months or years can be intimidating (nobody likes to be “the new kid”). That’s why we typically have a Group specifically for people new to the church and/or Groups. Everyone in this Group is “new” so everyone is in the same boat. This Group is typically lead by a member of the Leadership Team (so you get to know them too).
What if I can't find a Group for me?
If you’re not sure which Group is right for you (or don’t think there is one), please reach out the our Groups Director as they will know each of the Groups in more detail and will be able to help direct you to a Group that’s perfect for you.
What if I don't like the Group I'm in or want to try something different?
No problem! Not every Group is for everyone and sometimes we feel like we need a break or something new for a season. Each session is an opportunity to sign up for a new Group with no guilt (everyone is used to it). We want everyone to be in the right Group for them so keep trying until you find your tribe!
“Groups are designed to help you live and own your spiritual journey–to foster connection with God, each other, and community through active participation in a group of Christ-followers.”
– Chris Cobb
Sunday Service @ 10 am
info@pinecrestonline.org