WHAT IS A SMALL GROUP?
Most of our small groups are made up of 6-12 people who want to connect more regularly and grow more spiritually with some good friends. Sometimes the best description is simply, "They are a group of people who look a lot like you and are making an attempt to do life differently."
 

WHY SHOULD I JOIN A SMALL GROUP ?
If small groups weren't important to us, we wouldn't be emphasizing them so much to you. You were created for community! We know you're busy and pressed for time. We know that you're living in a culture that fosters isolationism. And we know that more than likely, you're doing life alone. If you're not experiencing community, the Bible says, "It's not good."

We're inviting you to discover the knowledge and wisdom of God by doing life differently with others in a small group.

 
ARE ALL SMALL GROUPS THE SAME?
The short answer is, "No!" The long answer is: Bethlehem is made up of many different people with many different characteristics. Some are male, others are female. Some are single, others are married. Some are young, others are older. Some want support, others want a study. Some are service-centered, others are seeker-centered. Some are parents, and some are grandparents. Our small groups are formed accordingly: some are purpose-centered, and some are affinity-based.
 
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF BETHLEHEM TO JOIN A SMALL GROUP ?
 No. We encourage you to invite friends, family, and neighbors to your small group regardless of where they attend or don't attend church.
 
HOW OFTEN AND LONG DOES A TYPICAL SMALL GROUP LAST?
The frequency and length of each group depends upon the purpose or affinity of each group. Some follow our Small Group Calendar, others meet until their purpose, (i.e., study, service or support) is completed, and others determine their own meeting frequency and schedule.
 
WHAT DO THE VARIOUS SMALL GROUPS STUDY?
Curriculum is very important for most of our small groups, so we offer them different options. Some studies are prepared by the staff as we launch new small groups through host homes.
 
COULD I HOST OR LEAD A SMALL GROUP?
Absolutely! We are always welcoming new hosts and leaders into the small group ministry! Simply request a Small Group Application by going to the small group website and sending us an email. You may also call the South Campus at 704.823.1600.
 
DOES THE CHURCH HAVE ANY CHILDCARE AVAILABLE ?
That depends solely on the group. Some groups provide 'on-site' care with special age-appropriate activities for the kids. Others provide care that is simply "babysitting." In some groups, individual families take responsibility for their own children's care. For the groups that choose to meet on a Wednesday night, we offer a full Children's Ministry program from 6-8 p.m., and on Friday nights, there is a partial Children's Ministry program from 7-9 p.m. (Please make reservations with the Children's Ministry.)