God created us to live in relationship with Him and with others. Small groups create space for us to care for others and to be cared for. They launch us into learning and growth – all in the context of community. It’s part of our design!
Jesus was, among other things, a rabbi. Like other rabbis of his day, Jesus had apprentices or disciples who attached themselves to Jesus with one goal: to become like him. Apprentices would spend every waking moment with their rabbi—sleeping at his side, eating at his table, sitting at his feet—and end up, after long hours walking behind him from town to town, covered in his dust. In fact, there was an old blessing, “May you be covered in the dust of your rabbi!” The Hebrew word, talmid, could be translated disciple, student, learner, or apprentice. The most helpful image and perhaps the better translation may be “apprentice.” We are going to apprentice with Jesus. We are going to spend time with him and do the things he did, so that we can become more like him.
Fall Small Group Series (Sept. 29-Nov. 10)
September 29: Look Up
October 6: Pray Up
October 13: Build Up
October 20: Wise Up
October 27: Group Up
November 3: Fess Up
November 10: Speak Up
There is a Ward-produced workbook, featuring both personal study and group discussion guides, as well as pastoral teaching videos for each of these seven weeks. This workbook is available for $10 in our Media Center.
If you would like to get connected or have any further questions, please feel free to contact Sarah our Director of Small Groups at sarah.dejong@ward.church.
At this time, we have concluded all of our Small Group Host briefings, however if you are still interested in hosting feel free to scroll to the bottom of the page and sign up to learn more about upcoming opportunities.
Are you a small group host looking for new members? Our Connection Events are a great opportunity for you to find those connections! Upcoming dates will be posted below as they are scheduled.
So how do I join a small group?
We host two Small Group Fairs each year (fall and early spring) where you can physically meet hosts with groups openings before a new curriculum is launched. However, you can join a small group anytime throughout the year! Our Director of Small Groups, Sarah de Jong, would be happy to help find a good fit after learning more about your availability and preferences. Complete the form at the bottom of this page to learn more.
Small groups allow us to connect with others through a common activity or purpose. They give space for life-giving conversations and relationships. They can be a catalyst to a supportive community, through prayer and the sharing and meeting of practical needs. Small groups allow us to know others and be known.
Twice a year, Ward provides a curriculum that generally aligns with the church-wide sermon series. During these semester, usually 6-8 weeks long, we encourage groups to meet weekly. Outside of this rhythm, your small group may decide to meet once every other week.
Childcare varies from group to group. Some groups chose to arrange childcare individually, others “pitch in” for a babysitter to supervise all children at the host home. There are many options here, as each group dynamic is different. Together, discuss what works best for your group.
We’re here to help! Our Director of Small Groups, Sarah de Jong, would like to learn more about your season of life, location and schedule to help you explore groups that may be of most interest to you. Let Sean know you’re interested by completing the opportunity at the bottom of this webpage. While not everyone will find a perfect fit in the first group they try, the Fall and Spring semesters are great opportunities to try out a short-term group for a set number of weeks.
Being a group host isn’t about being perfect, it’s about serving others by making space for these connections. We’ll give you the tools you need to start a successful small group. You can start a group around existing friendships, you can open your home to individuals at Ward looking for a group – or a little bit of both! Contact Director of Small Groups, Sarah at sarah.dejong@ward.church with questions or fill out the “Hosting a Small Group” opportunity at the bottom of this webpage to get started.
During the spring/fall semesters, we will make curriculums available right here on our small groups page, and through our on-demand media. Sign up to receive our weekly, sermon-based small group questions by emailing sarah.dejong@ward.church. If you’re looking for an alternate study throughout the year, Director of Small Groups, Sarah de Jong can help you find something for your group. As part of the Ward Family, you have free access to RightNow Media, which has quality curriculum for small groups and more.
Training/host meetings are being done individually. If you have any questions before signing up, you can email sarah.dejong@ward.church. After signing up, Sarah will contact you to set up a training time.
Someone who is excited to welcome others into their home and help facilitate small group discussion. You don’t need any experience in leading a small group, but a willingness to learn. You just need a tv, a home, and six weeks!
It’s up to you! You can gather together with an existing group of friends and/or neighbors. If you are excited to host and open to welcoming new faces to join you, we can help! We’ll match you with people who are looking to join a group like yours.
WATCH ONLINE
ward.church/live
SUNDAY SERVICES
Traditional: 9 a.m. + 2 p.m.
Contemporary: 10:30 a.m.
+ 4 p.m.
40000 Six Mile Rd
Northville, MI 48168
Phone: 248-374-7400
Fax: 248-374-3322
SUNDAY SERVICES
Traditional: 9 a.m.
Contemporary: 10:30 a.m.
27996 Halsted Rd
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
Phone: 248-482-7500
SUNDAY SERVICES
Contemporary: 10:30 a.m.
