Life Groups are smaller circles within our bigger church that keep us connected in intentional relationships to be known, present, and faithful. Jesus prayed that we would be one with each other and with God, so that the world may believe in Him (John 17:20-21). Check out the resources below to learn more about our vision for groups and how to get connected to one of the many Group Opportunities.
We are so incredibly grateful for the many efforts you put in, week-in and week-out, to prayerfully lead the Groups at Magnify with joy.
To show our gratitude, we are hosting a Leader Appreciation Station on Sunday, May 17, between our 1st and 2nd services (10:15–11:00 AM). Whether you are at the Rockford or Northview campus, please stop by the kiosk in the atrium! We would love to shake your hand, pat you on the back, and offer a token of our appreciation for the work you do to lead in love.
The words of 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3 truly capture how we feel about our Group Leaders: “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Thank you for your “labor of love” and for everything you do for our community. We can’t wait to see you there!
We have groups for all ages and stages of life–groups for men, women, singles, young adults, older adults, parents, and support groups for those navigating adoption, grieving the loss of a loved one, or working through betrayal. Check out the options and get in touch with a leader today to find out how to get plugged in.
Groups are a place where people can be known, present, and faithful to God and each other.
Where we risk opening up and letting people into the dark places where we hide. This is a step by step process of growing in trust with people and with God. With growing vulnerability brings more opportunity to taste of God’s love through His Spirit and His people.
We want to be a safe place for others to risk being known. We want to listen well, pursue each other, and be redemptively curious about the lives of others as we’re open to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
God never gives up on us. We want to follow his example and not give up on others. Sometimes we hurt each other – whether we mean to or not. But God is up to something good in the midst of our trials and conflicts. We want to be a church that is committed to loving one another, even when it’s hard. That begins by being dedicated and showing up to the group
You will get to know other people and have an opportunity to build meaningful relationships. You can grow spiritually as you study the Bible together and apply its truths to your life. You will not be alone in your struggles and challenges. Groups provide opportunities to pray, serve, encourage one another, and to grow in Christ.
As helpful and important as it is for you to receive support, community, and discipleship in a small group, God has gifted you to help your group too. Group membership is mutually beneficial: you are helped by your group and you help your group by bringing yourself to them. While there may be one leader, each group member is an important part of the group and has something unique they bring to the table.
Eight to twelve people are typically in a group, including leaders. Support groups can be larger.
Groups typically meet in homes in the evening, usually for 2 hours. Most groups meet every other week. Support groups meet weekly for a determined time.
Groups often begin with refreshments and casual, social time. They study the Sunday sermons or a topic that is relevant to spiritual growth. Groups seek to build truth over time, sharing struggles and joys so they can pray for, encourage, and grow with one another toward Christ. Confidentiality is a priority.
Within the first three to four meetings, group members discuss and come to a mutual agreement about the purpose and values of their groups. But, not every group is the right fit for everyone. Processing this with the group leader is an important first step to addressing concerns about the small group. If adjustments can’t be made, sometimes another group is the best choice for you.
In addition to serving one another within the group, our small groups serve in our local church ministries, bridge-building events, and the community. Groups are assigned a global partner to pray for and support through cards and emails. Groups are encouraged to participate in the Mission of Magnify by serving locally together.
Small Group Leaders are those who follow Jesus and have been trained in Small Group Leadership. They sometimes come through groups organically or they are appointed by the church. Small Group Leaders are expected to lead a life worth following. They may not be biblical scholars or professional counselors, but they care deeply about the things of God. They are accessible to the group, caring, and curious. They are humble, teachable, intentional, and willing to lead the way.
Our church’s mission is “Always Making Disciples” and we believe we our small group leaders are an essential part of that disciple-making team. If you’re interested in becoming a leader, please reach out to someone on our small groups team to have a conversation about what that will look like to be interviewed, trained, and deployed to leading a group.
To join a group or ask a question contact either Trent Heaton, Director of Small Groups and Men’s Ministry or Kim Fernando, Adult Small Group/Men’s Ministry Admin.
Small Group Leaders are those who follow Jesus and have been trained in Small Group Leadership. They sometimes come through groups organically or they are appointed by the church. Small Group Leaders are expected to lead a life worth following. They may not be biblical scholars or professional counselors, but they care deeply about the things of God. They are accessible to the group, caring, and curious. They are humble, teachable, intentional, and willing to lead the way.
Our church’s mission is “Always Making Disciples” and we believe we our small group leaders are an essential part of that disciple-making team. If you’re interested in becoming a leader, please reach out to someone on our small groups team to have a conversation about what that will look like to be interviewed, trained, and deployed to leading a group.
We are currently updating our Group Leader Training curriculum and will be offering classes to potential and new group leaders.
