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!
As the fall season quickly approaches, we’re excited about the opportunities your group will have to grow in community and in faith. With this year's healthy families theme, we'll spend time considering and cultivating loving relationships—with God, with family, and with one another—and we’re offering two strong options for our small groups:
This fall, our Community Bible Class (CBC) is diving into the book of Genesis, with a focus on God’s design for healthy families. From creation to covenant, Genesis shows how God works wondrously through imperfect people and complex family dynamics. We’ll see deception, jealousy, betrayal—but also forgiveness, grace, and hope. Together, we’ll explore how God’s redemptive love brings hope, healing, and purpose to our relationships today.
No matter your stage of life or level of Bible study experience, you’ll find wisdom and encouragement for building stronger families and deeper faith.
Each week includes:
Reading questions for personal study
Teaching time
Small group discussion time (men's, women's, co-ed available)
Morning and Evening Options:
Led by Pam Dodge
Location: Northville Chapel
9:30-11:30 a.m.
Childcare available on-site
Led by Sarah de Jong
Location: Northville Conference Center
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
No childcare on site; reimbursement help available
Note: Registration options include "HALF" and "FULL." To register for the Fall study in Genesis only, select "HALF." To register for both Genesis in the Fall and Hebrews in the Spring, select "FULL."
This fall, we're inviting our entire Ward Church family to engage in a powerful season of spiritual growth and relational renewal through "40 Days of Love," a church-wide sermon series and study through 1 Corinthians 13.
In a world marked by division and distraction, we’ll return to the heart of the Gospel and the greatest command: love. What does it look like to love like Jesus—in our families, our friendships, our workplaces, and even in conflict? Over six weeks, we’ll explore God’s definition of love and learn practical ways to live it out every day.
Small groups can choose from two great resources during this season:
"40 Days of Love" by Rick Warren – A six-session small group study with weekly teaching videos (available on YouTube) and discussion guides, ideal for newer groups and those with more limited time.
The Relationship Principles of Jesus by Tom Holladay – A 40-day devotional book for those wanting more in-depth reflection and daily growth. Includes devotions and small group discussion questions.
Groups are welcome to use either resource—or both—for a rich and engaging experience.
Note: The sermon series will technically run for seven weeks, beginning October 12 and ending November 23. October 12 will serve as an introduction to the six-week small group study.
Both resources are available now through Amazon and other venues. Starting September 14, discounted copies will also be available at small group events and in the Media Center.
Attend one of the Small Group Host briefings listed below.
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 Connections Events 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 gather people together and to help facilitate conversations. You don’t need any experience in leading a small group. You just need a willingness to learn, access to a quiet room with a tv, and seven 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.
Access our past curriculum
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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.
