Small Group FAQ
What is a small group?
A small group is a gathering of 3-12 individuals who meet regularly around a common goal or need. Though Centenary small groups will emphasize different aspects, they all will include worship, prayer, intentional growth and outreach (through evangelism or mission), wrapped in an experience of community.
What kinds of groups will we offer?
There are many different kinds of groups, each offering a different focus and accompanying strengths and weaknesses.
- Discipleship groups -- Bible studies, accountability groups, and or topical studies
- Fellowship groups -- community building with various other activities or goals
- Ministry groups -- centered around outreach, service, or a task
- Growth or Recovery groups -- focused on helping individuals overcome difficulties through a healing environment
- Affinity groups -- formed based on a common aspect, such as men's groups or women's groups, but may include other emphases
- New Life Communities -- a church within the church with extended times together
Are Sunday School classes also small groups?
Though Sunday School classes have characteristics similar to small groups, they differ in some significant ways. Sunday School classes typically focus on study and they don't always emphasize fellowship, worship, prayer, or outreach. In addition, some Sunday School classes can be quite large. Even so, there are some Sunday School classes that have incorporated small groups or small group activities into their classes.
What values will we live by?
We hope the following characteristics will be present in all Centenary small groups:
- A commitment to growth -- both personal development and the increase in the number of small groups. Group leadership development should be a feature of every group.
- A commitment to community -- a commitment to pursue biblical koinonia[*] through worship, study and the sharing of our lives together. Community includes a willingness to be vulnerable with each other, to be transparent in our relationships and to pursue authenticity in our lives. Confidentiality is also a hallmark of biblical community.
- A commitment to outreach -- groups do not exist exclusively for themselves but discover rich community through service and outreach to others.
Why is a group covenant important?
Two things are crucial to the success of a small group. One is a designated leader who is adequately trained. The other is a group covenant. A covenant is simply an agreement which, from the outset, outlines what the group is about. It includes elements such as who we are, what we do, how long we will do it and when we will review the agreement. Having such clarity forms group identity, sets proper expectations and encourages faithful participation.
Will Centenary provide training and support?
The identification of appropriate leaders and their training is central to the success of small groups. Groups will be formed once leaders have been trained through a Centenary devised program that draws on the best experiences of other churches. In addition, we hope to form an ongoing community of small group leaders that meet for additional training and exposure to additional group resources.
When do small groups meet?
Ideally, once a week, at a time that is consistently good for everyone. Some groups, however, meet less frequently.
Where do small groups meet?
Preferably, small groups meet in group members' homes. However, the church building may be an option for some groups, depending on the day and time. Some groups meet in a restaurant or coffee shop.
What do small groups do?
Most groups engage in some form of study (either topical or a book of the Bible), fellowship together (over a meal or simple snacks), and pray for each other. Many groups also choose to periodically invest in some sort of outreach.
What can I expect from a small group?
As a group forms and relationships develop...
- Encouragement for spiritual growth.
- Strength for life's storms.
- Wisdom for making important decisions.
- Acceptance that helps us repair our wounds.
Register Your Interest in a Small Group
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