| Small groups are in the Kitchen environment, where people become family as they develop trusting relationships. Here people give and receive care and move their focus towards service for others.
Lakeview can be intimidating for new people who might feel lost in the crowd. Though people come to the church for many different reasons they generally stay for one - relationships. At Lakeview Church we believe that small groups are one of the best contexts for developing solid Christian relationships. In a small group, you have the opportunity to not only be loved and accepted, but to develop friendships with others who are discovering what it means to follow Jesus! There are multiple types of groups which offer a place for developing friendships while enjoying mutual interests.
At Lakeview and in homes in and around the city, almost 800 people, from 5 year olds to Seniors, are meeting regularly together in small groups. Currently there are about 45 adult groups, and new groups are starting all the time. Join a small group and make some Friends for the Journey.
A Small Group . . .
. . . is a great place to meet new people and make lifetime friends.
. . . gives you a place to belong and a sense of community that we all desire.
. . . gives you the kind of support you need to continue to move forward in your spiritual journey.
. . . is a great place to uncover God's purpose for you in serving - besides ministering to each other, groups are encouraged to serve together occasionally in a church ministry or in the community.
. . . is a place where you can search the Bible with fellow explorers for relevant application to your life.
Types of Small Groups
Nurture groups - provide a caring environment where growth can occur as lives are shared and the Bible studied.
Support Groups - Provide an environment for support, healing and growth through a group focused on a particular need.
Accountability Groups - Provide an environment of friendship and accountability
Study Groups - Provide an environment where growth towards a defined target can occur through study and life application in a committed and caring group.
Ministry/Serving Groups - Provide a supportive and caring environment for a team of people serving together in a ministry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to know a lot about the Bible to be a part of a Small Group?
The primary focus of Small Groups is to care for one another based on Biblical principles. As your group grows, you will discover those Biblical principles.
Am I expected to pray out loud at my Small Group?
No. Small Groups are intended to provide a safe environment where individual comfort levels are respected. People are not expected to share beyond their comfort levels.
Can I come if I’m not a Christ follower yet?
Yes! Small Groups are where you can see authentic Christianity in action. It is a safe place for people who are seeking God or who are making their journey back to God.
How do I find a Small Group that’s right for me?
We have various types of groups (Support, Nurture, Study, and Accountability) for various ages and stages of life. Check out the Small Groups display at the Information Centre for descriptions of many of our groups, fill out a Communication Card or contact Elizabeth Nickel.
Where do these groups meet?
Most groups meet in homes around the city or in nearby towns. Most support groups meet at the church.
When do these groups meet?
Each group decides whether they will meet together every week or every 2 weeks. Some groups continue to meet year round, while others meet for a specific time period, usually 8-13 weeks.
Want to know more?
1. Watch for a “Taste of Community” in January and October.
2. Check out the Small Groups display at the Information Centre.
3. Fill out a Communication Card.
4. Contact Elizabeth Nickel. |