Small Groups

Ministry description  

Small Groups help Messiah move from a Sunday-centric rhythm to a shared-life rhythm—where people gather in smaller settings for discipleship, prayer, care, and friendship. Groups include both spiritual growth and social gatherings so relationships deepen naturally and newcomers can connect more easily. Groups may meet weekly, twice monthly, or monthly (often with an additional fellowship gathering).  

Core activities  

• Faith building + discussion (sermon-based, Bible passage, or a short study series)  

• (AND/OR) Fellowship and fun (meals, coffee meetups, game nights, hikes/walks, family-friendly hangouts)  

• Prayer: for one another and for the church  

• Care and check-ins (supporting one another with clear boundaries)  

• Optional “bring-a-friend” gatherings that feel easy and welcoming  Messiah 

Individual Small Group Leader  

Role summary  

A Small Group Leader helps a few people at Messiah meet regularly for fellowship, Scripture, and prayer—so we grow in Jesus and stay connected beyond Sunday.  Reports to: Small Groups Coordinator (and/or Pastor)  

Main responsibilities  

• Host or lead the gathering (weekly, twice a month, or monthly—whatever the group chooses)  

• Faith Focused: Keep meetings simple- welcome, faith-building study (Bible/sermon discussion, etc.), prayer, and fellowship.   

• Social Focused: Keep meetings simple- welcome, prayer, and fun/fellowship.  

• Create a warm, safe environment: include newcomers, invite participation, be respectful  

• Follow up with people: quick text/call when someone is struggling or missing  

• Ask for help when needed: refer bigger care needs to the pastor/care team  

• Communicate basics: meeting reminders and occasional updates to the coordinator  Expectations  

• Friendly, dependable, and willing to learn  

• Keeps confidences and avoids gossip  

• Leads by serving, not by having all the answers  

Estimated time Usually 1–3 hours per meeting (prep + meeting + small follow-up), depending on how often your group meets.  

Small Group Member

Responsibilities  

• Attend consistently as able; communicate when you can’t make it  

• Participate: listen well, share appropriately, encourage others (not dominate discussion)  

• Pray for group members and the church; engage during prayer time  

• Keep confidences; don’t share personal stories outside the group without permission  

• Help build fellowship: greet newcomers, invite others, contribute to meals/hosting when possible  

• Serve in small ways: rotate snacks, host, childcare coordination, or service projects  

• Practice care: notice when someone is struggling and respond with support (and refer to pastor/care team when appropriate)  

• Stay missional: be open to inviting a friend or neighbor  

Estimated time Typical: 1-2 hours/meeting. Based upon individual small group leader and frequency of meeting.