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!
During Lent, the forty days leading up to Resurrection Sunday, we naturally focus on Jesus’ identity as the sacrificial Lamb of God. Jesus is more than a lamb, however; He is the Good Shepherd. For our Spring 2025 church-wide series, we’ll spend seven weeks going line by line through Psalm 23—a relatively short, three-thousand-year-old poem that depicts God’s love, goodness, and provision with unforgettable imagery.
One of the best-known passages of the entire Bible, we hope you and your small group will join us as we intentionally slow down, immerse ourselves in the Scriptures and walk closely with the Lord, our Shepherd.
Spring Small Group Series (March 9 - April 20)
March 9: What do you want?
March 16: Greener Pastures
March 23: God Guidance
March 30: Facing Death
April 6: Comforting Discipline
April 13: Anointed by God
April 20: Secure Forever
This series features Ward-produced curriculum, including pastoral teaching videos and a group discussion guide. The discussion guide can be purchased in print for $5 (in our Media Center from February 23 onward) or downloaded digitally (below).
If you would like to get connected to a group or have any questions, contact Sarah, our Director of Small Groups, at sarah.dejong@ward.church
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.
