Small Groups
Small Groups
Get Connected . . . Join a Small Group
Our desire is that everyone in our church be connected and cared for in authentic spiritual community. It is in the context of a relationship with God and with His people that we thrive spiritually. The two chief venues for connection at Southgate are the many Adult Bible Fellowship Classes that meet each Sunday at 9:15 a.m. and our small groups that meet for accountability, belonging and care. We encourage you to explore these two important opportunities.
What kinds of small groups are offered at Southgate?
We have two main types of small groups, Journey Groups and Focus Groups.
- Journey Groups: These could be referred to as "transformational groups" because the goal is to work together toward life transformation and the development of the profile of a disciple. Journey Groups center on four dynamics to move us forward on our journey: Reaching upward to God; reaching inward to build Body life; reaching outward to the lost; and moving forward to multiply ministry.
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Focus Groups: These groups include support, service and groups with a special mission or focus. As in any journey there are bumps in the road, rest stops, and detours along the route. A Focus Group serves as a transitional group to address a specific need before going on in the spiritual journey. Once a specific area is addressed a person should transition into a Journey Group.
What does a Journey Group look like?
A Journey Group is a fellowship made up of up to 14 people who meet weekly to study the Bible, share and support one another in their Christian lives. Each group is led by a trained leader. A typical meeting lasts for an hour and a half, followed by light refreshments. Some groups may choose to also spend some time in singing and worship.
What does a Focus Group look like?
These groups meet regularly to offer support and encouragement for those dealing with special needs or want to have a more specific emphasis. M.A.G.I.C. Group (Marriages Actively Growing In Christ) seeks to assist couples with their communication in marriage. Discipleship Groups focus on developing the skills and knowledge necessary for healthy spiritual growth. Ministry groups meet regularly at various locations for personal support, encouragement, planning and carrying out of ministry. This would include ushers, greeters, technology team, worship team, choir, orchestra, missions team, newsletter team, bulletin board team and many more.
How Long Does A Group Last?
We've broken the year into three seasons, fall (Sept-Nov), winter (Jan-March) and spring (April-June). Each season lasts 10 -11 weeks. At the end of each season you have the choice of staying in the same group, trying a new group or taking a break. December, July and August are "off months". Groups use these months to gather as they choose. They may use this time to gather socially, or take the time off completely.
Which Group Should I Join?
We suggest you join a group based on your "station in life" 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 similarly-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!
What Is The Required Commitment?
Joining a Journey Group requires a 10 to 11 week commitment to attend the weekly meetings and complete any reading or study ahead of time. 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 Does It Cost?
Few things in life are free and small groups are no exception. The cost of a small group is the cost of commitment. At the beginning of each season, each group will complete a "covenant" together. This simple form helps each group discuss their goals and their commitment. Part of that commitment is the promise to attend each week and to complete any reading or study preparation.
When you join a group you are promising to attend and be prepared each week. It's this commitment that makes small groups work. We realize it's a big commitment, but it only lasts for 10-11 weeks. At the end of each season, you have the choice of recommitting for another season, trying a new group or taking a break from small groups altogether.
What About Childcare?
Small Groups are generally for adults only. We leave it up to each group 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. Childcare is also available at the church on most Sunday evenings and Wednesday evenings through our Children's Ministry programs.
What Will We Study?
Each group determines their own course of study but ultimately we are all working toward the same goal - to be like Christ. Groups may choose a particular book of the Bible or a life topic to address. Each group is striving toward the Profile of a Disciple which is intended to move us in the direction of Christ-likeness.
When And Where Do These Groups Meet?
Groups will meet throughout the week on various days and times. Most will meet in homes throughout the community, although some may meet at the church, restaurants, apartment clubhouses - wherever works best for each individual group. Once a month, generally the first Sunday of the month, is an all gathered service at the church. This gives us a special opportunity to hear from missionaries and highlight special church wide issues and needs. Those that typically meet on Sunday evening will gather at the church during this time.
How Do I Sign Up?
Once you have carefully reviewed this information and decided what groups could work for you, complete the Sign-up Form. A word of advice: If you know today which group you want, we suggest you not delay. The groups will fill up fast and the sooner you register, the more likely it is that you will get your first choice. You can join any group that has openings without waiting for the start of a new season. Prior to your small group starting, you will receive a call from your Leader or Host with information about your group's first get-together. Enjoy the journey together with God and others!
What Focus Groups Are Currently Being Offered?
What Journey Groups are currently being offered?
- Faithbuilder ABF (
- Dale Helmuth - Wednesday at 7:00 PM in
- Becoming One ABF (Vangie Billing) - Tuesday at 7:00 PM
- Rod Wyse - Sunday at 6:00 PM in Cedarville
- Faithbuilders ABF (Denny Moritz) - Friday at 7:00 PM
- Study Hall (Eric Mounts) - Sunday at 6:00 PM in the Choir Room
- Men’s Group - Tuesday at 6:15 AM in the Library
- Singles (20’s – 30’s) (Xidong Chen) - Sunday at 6:30 PM in Enon
- Young Adult Women (20's-30's) (Amanda Gillispie) - Sunday at 2:30 PM in the Library
- Marion Conley - Wednesday at 7:00 PM in the Conference Room
- Women of the Word (Kathy Ardle) - Tuesday at 9:00 AM in Room 122 (studying Don’t Waste Your Life, by John Piper)
- Charlie Monroe - Wednesday at 7:00 PM
