Small Groups FAQ

Our Fall 2011 Small Group Series

What are small groups?

Small groups at Northminster are groups of about 6-12 people who meet once a week for 8 weeks.  Each group meeting consists of a time of discussion of that particular group’s topic or focus, a time of sharing and getting to know each other, and praying for each other.

Who are these small groups for?

They’re for anyone who wants to grow in their faith and/or get to know other people.  Because the groups will be both practical and relational in nature, they work well for both new and long-time followers of Jesus.  And if you’re not yet a follower of Jesus, these groups would be great for you, too!

Why should I join a small group?

Small groups at Northminster offer several benefits:

1. You’ll get to know some great people and develop some meaningful relationships.
2. You’ll get a chance to discuss and ask questions about the sermon from that Sunday.
3. You’ll have at least 7-11 other people who are praying for you every week!

How long will these groups last?

Eight weeks; the schedule for the current series is posted HERE.

Where will the groups meet?

Some of the groups will meet in homes, restaurants, or coffee shops; some will meet at the church.  Location information is on the groups schedule and each sign-up sheet on the patio.

When will the groups meet?

At various times during the week.  See the groups schedule or sign-up sheets on the patio for more details.

Will I have to “teach”?

No, you won’t have to teach.  In fact, no one in the group will have to teach, not even the group facilitator.  The group is intended for discussion, for questions, and for getting to know one another.

Will I have homework?

Well, it depends on your group.  If you’re doing a book study, you’ll have to read that week’s chapter.  If you’re in a sermon-based group, all you need to do to prepare is listen to that week’s sermon.  Some groups won’t have any homework at all.

Do I have to know a lot?

Knowledge is not a requirement!  These groups are for learning, not for showing others how much we already know!

Will I have to pray out loud?

No one will be forced to pray out loud.  But you’re certainly welcome to give it a shot if you’d like!

Do I have to go every week?

We’d like you to commit to going every week.  Of course, we also understand that sometimes things come up or you may already have something on your calendar on a particular week.  Not a problem.  But in order for you to get the most out of these groups, it would be great for you to miss as few meetings as possible.

What if I need transportation?

Don’t worry about transportation.  If you need a ride, your group facilitator will help you work that out.

Do I have to go to church in order to be in a group?

Not necessarily.  Unless you’re in a sermon-based group, you won’t need to have been in church that Sunday.  (Of course, that doesn’t mean you should stop coming to church!  We find spiritual nourishment and refreshment in church and small groups.)  If you do miss a Sunday, you can always listen to the sermons online at www.northminstersandiego.com, or through iTunes.

Do I have to be a member of Northminster to be in a group?

Nope.  Anyone can be in a group.

Do I have to be a Presbyterian to be in a group?

Again, nope.  Anyone can be in a group.

How many people will be in a group?

Anywhere from about 6-12 people.

How do I join a small group?

1. Sign up on the patio after the worship service.
2. Sign up via this web site by clicking HERE.
3. E-mail or call the church office (858-490-3995) and tell them which group you’d like to join.

How will I find out where my group meets?

Your small group facilitator will call or e-mail you prior to your first meeting to let you know where you’ll be meeting and how to get there.