WHAT IS THE GOAL OF A COMMUNITY GROUP?

At Grace we have three longings, for more grace, more depth, and more community. You will find all three in your Community Group, but the focus is on community. The goal is to connect with other people in the Grace community, get to know one another better, and find encouragement in our efforts to follow Christ. 

HOW IS EACH GROUP ORGANIZED?

Each group has a leader and a host. The group will meet in the host’s home, and the leader facilitates the group discussions. 

WHAT DO WE DO AT OUR COMMUNITY GROUP MEET-UP?

Your group will follow a loose structure that includes social time, a conversation facilitated by the leader, and prayer. 

HOW CAN I MAKE THE MOST OF MY COMMUNITY GROUP COMMITMENT?

Three things: show up on time, participate, and focus on others. In an age where most of us find ourselves spread too thin and getting more of our social interaction online, we can’t overemphasize the importance of physical presence. Being present is half the battle these days. Participation doesn’t mean you have to talk a lot or open up about your deepest secrets. We all have different comfort levels when it comes to building relationships. Participation means being there not just physically but also mentally and (most important) spiritually. And you always benefit most when your focus is not on having your say, but on listening to and understanding others. 

ARE MY CHILDREN WELCOME TO ATTEND MY COMMUNITY GROUP?

Definitely. We encourage young people to participate as they are able. Your group may organize special activities for children, too. Within our loose structure there is a lot of freedom for each group to experiment with the best way to welcome children. 

WILL WE ALWAYS MEET AT THE HOST’S HOME?

Usually, but not always, groups may move around as schedules demand. 

WHAT IF I CAN’T MAKE IT TO EVERY GROUP MEET-UP?

We encourage you to attend every time your group meets, even if it means rearranging your schedule. Having said that, we know it’s not always possible. Do your best to be present. When you cannot make it, try to let your group host know in advance. 

IF I’M ALREADY PART OF A GROUP, CAN I SWITCH TO A DIFFERENT ONE?

Of course. If a different group fits your schedule better or meets in a location that is easier for you to reach, you are free to switch. We encourage you, however, to sink roots in a particular group. The goal of deeper community takes commitment and time. If you have a question about changing your group, you can contact Tim & Mel Murray,

IF I’M NOT PART OF A GROUP, HOW DO I JOIN ONE?

If you want a recommendation, you can begin by talking to Tim & Mel Murray. Once you’ve decided to commit to a group, let your leader know. That way you can be sure to stay in the loop on group communication. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF A GROUP GETS TOO BIG?

There is no set size for groups. As your group grows, your host and leader will keep an eye out for potential hosts and leaders for the future. When a group gets too large, we will encourage them to help get a new group going. This decision would be something your group itself would organize, rather than a top-down decree, and the timing will depend on what feels too large to the group. If your group is approaching this question about starting a new group, let Tim & Mel Murray know.