Small Groups

If you’re looking for a place to question, grow, wonder, dream, cry and simply hang out with others, a small group might be the glue to hold your life together. Instead of feeling like life is doing something to you, how about a chance to join others in doing life together? If that sounds interesting, a Small Group experience might be an absolute necessity for you!

In a Small Group you can…

At WPC you can connect in many different types of Small Groups. We have bible study groups, fellowship groups, support groups, service groups and ministry groups. View our list of small groups to see where you would like to make your connection. We are always adding new groups. If you have an idea for a Small Group we would like to hear it.

If you aren’t exactly sure what you are looking for or have any other questions please contact Jeanie Haapalainen. 

 

 

 

Q: Why are we doing Small Groups?     

A: At WPC we believe that life-change happens best in intimate communities, so small groups exist to inspire both life and growth in Jesus. Along with our emphasis on doing life together, groups also provide a great way to get connected and make new friends.

Q: How long will my commitment to a Small Group be?

A: Small Groups are not identical. Just as there are many types of groups there are just as many meeting times and schedules. Some groups may meet for as little as 6 weeks, some for a year or so, and some groups will continue to meet indefinitely.

Q: Do I have to be a member of Westminster Church to join a group?

A: Absolutely not. We have many, many, non-members friends who worship, study, live, and serve right along with us. Anyone is welcome to join us as we seek to grow together.

Q: What if the group that interests me has already been meeting? Do I have to wait for another group to start?

A: No, you don’t have to wait. All Small Groups have an “empty chair.” This means that there is always a place for someone new, no matter how long the group has been together! In fact all Small Groups at WPC welcome and love to have new people join.

Q: I’m not that well versed in the Bible. How can I keep up with the rest of the group?

A: There is no grade in Small Groups! All groups have a devotional time which may or may not include study. The primary focus of these groups is tob uild relationships and care for one another. As your group develops and grows, you will be in a great place to deepen your faith and grow in knowledge of the basics of faith. A few groups will use studies designed for people who are more advanced in their knowledge of the Bible. These will be listed as such in their descriptions. If you have questions about the level of study in any group please contact Jeanie Haapalainen.

Q: Will I be expected to pray in front of the group?

A: While prayer is an important component of a Small Group, there are many ways to pray without doing it out loud in front of a group. You should never feel pressured to participate in any way which makes you uncomfortable.

Q: Where do groups meet?

A: Groups meet in homes and at WPC depending on the needs and wishes of the group. Occasionally they meet in restaurants or at other public places.

Q: How is being in a Small Group different than Bible Studies I have been part of in the past?

A: A Small Group is more than just studying the Bible. When you join a small group, you are there not only for study, but also to care for the needs of other group members and have yours cared for. Depending on the particular group, study may be a big or small part of the meeting. The real difference is our hope is that your small group will become a collection of people you can turn to in times of deepest need, greatest joy or, for that matter, any time in between.

Q: How do groups handle child care?

A: We encourage childcare and offer resources and suggestions, but the decision of “if” or “how” to handle children is the responsibility of each Group itself. If yours needs childcare, we stand ready to help make that happen. 

Q: What if I’m not quite ready or able to join a Small Group right now?

A: Well, at least you know more about why you will want to join one in the future!  We plan to regularly add new Groups to our roster. So keep looking and you will  find the group, time and situation that’s just right for you!

Q: Do I have to be a Christian to join a Small Group?

A: No, you don’t have to be a Christian to attend a Small Group. Small Groups are a place where Christians and non-Christians together can explore Jesus and His teachings. In fact, one of the very best places to ask questions about, and come to understand, Christianity is in small groups.

If you still have questions after browsing the following FAQs, contact Jeanie Haapalainen, Small Groups Coordinator