CLPC

Small Group FAQs

  • Why should I join a small group?

Quite simply, we believe as Jesus needed a small group, then as His followers, so do we.  Christ formed His own small group when he called His twelve Disciples. This unlikely “band of brothers” offered Christ and one another mutual comfort, friendship, and encouragement as they faced the joys and trials of spreading The Good News. 

  • What happens at a small group meeting?

Each group is unique to some degree.  Some groups are more structured than others;  some spend more time in Bible study, others devote more time to the sharing of their life’s issues, and some place a heavier emphasis on service.  Generally, you will find the following to be a part of each gathering:

  • Fellowship – Growing in trust, knowledge and comfort with one another in a safe and relaxed setting;
  • Study – Discussing Biblically-based books or studies chosen by the group; Prayer – Praying with and for one another;
  • Worship – Exploring ways to worship together.  (Don’t worry – if you think you can’t sing, you will discover that there are other forms of worship besides songs)
  • Service - Reaching out with Christ’s love to meet the needs of others
  • What kinds of studies do small groups do?

Some groups only study the books of the Bible,  some employ video series studies,  others use books focused on aspects of spirituality.  Many of our groups utilize a combination of all of these; however, no matter what type of study is chosen, the goal of small groups is to lead you to more interaction with and application of God’s word.

  • When do small groups meet?

We have groups that meet most every night of the week either weekly or bi-weekly with an average meeting time of about one and one half to two hours.

  • Where do Small Groups meet?

Most groups meet in members homes on a rotating basis while some gather at church,

  • Do I have to host a group in my home or be expected to lead a study?

No one “has” to do either of these.  Hosting in your home is voluntary and determining who leads or facilitates a group differs. Some groups rotate leadership and others have one or two primary people who lead or facilitate the group.

  • What about my children when I’m at a Small Group meeting?

There is no childcare provided for small group meetings so arrangements for childcare are left up to the parent(s).

  • What will/won’t I be expected to do in a small group?

Being part of a Small Group requires basic group-building principles like trust/confidentiality, honesty, and commitment to the goals of the group (including attendance.) No one is expected to share, pray, or participate beyond their comfort level.

We encourage every small group to have a written covenant where the group’s vision and goals (and the means to measure these)  are clearly stated. You might want to ask the leader/contact person if their group has one you could you review beforehand to get a better idea of what might be expected of you.

  • What kind of small groups are there?

At present there are over 20 small groups at CLPC. The majority tend to be “affinity groups” (i.e., parents with small children, empty nesters, etc.) while others are a real mixture of interests, ages, marital status, etc.

  • Do I have to be a Christian to join a small group?

No.

  • Do I have to be a member of CLPC to join a small group?

No.

  • What if want to start a new group or lead a small group?

Group leaders are required to be members of CLPC and new group leaders are required to go through Small Group Leader Training.  Please contact Steph Greenstein  to discuss the process for starting and/or leading a small group.

  • How can I join a small group?

Complete the Small Group Information Request and return it to Steph Greenstein.

  • What happens if I don’t like the group I’m in or it’s not a good fit?

While we do our best to place you in the right group, sometimes it just doesn’t feel like a good fit.  We would encourage you to “try on” a small group for at least 6 meetings.  After that, if it still doesn’t seem to be what you’re looking for, then don’t give up – we will work with you to find another group.

  • What if I have a question that isn’t answered here?

Contact Steph Greenstein by email or phone (832-366-5208) and she’ll be happy to help you.

(If you’re looking for something other than a small group, perhaps the following information may be helpful:

Support Group – contact the church regarding our Stephen Ministry (a trained group of lay caregivers who  provide one-to-one Christian care)

Prayer Chain – intercessory prayer for specific needs

Adult Education, Men’s and Women’s Ministries