Bethany Community Church

How are Community Groups different from Small Groups?

Community Groups are short term, topically based, and are intended to provide easy ways to get to know more people at Bethany. Small Groups are committed to each for a longer period (at least one year) and are intended to provide deep relationships in which people share life, study, and fellowship. We recommend people join a Community Group in order to meet others they might want to be in a Small Group with.

The groups brochure can help further explain the intentions and differences behind the two kinds of groups.

If I missed the registration period can I still join a Community Group?

Depends. Some groups will fill up and won’t be able to accommodate additional people. Other groups would be delighted to have you join them. If it’s too late in the trimester we might encourage you to wait until the next registration period in order to get a fresh start with a new group.

Where do the ideas for Community Groups come from?

These groups are primarily being created out of the passions, interests, hobbies, and needs of our community. Occasionally, Bethany will provide study material for a week or two that we’ll ask all groups to consider at the same time. However, most of the time these groups will emerge directly from you – the people of Bethany.

Can I attend more than one group?

Yes. We encourage you not to attend more than two groups at one time, as we’d like you to be able to participate well in the groups you’re part of. We also encourage you not to attend too many of the same types of groups. Mix it up! Don’t just do activity groups, or service groups, but look into exploring a number of different kinds.

Community Groups