starting point groups
A conversational small group environment where you can
explore faith and experience community.
Is Starting Point for me?
Though anyone can benefit from the experience, Starting Point is primarily designed for those who might consider themselves:
- Seekers - those who are curious about God, Jesus, the Bible, or Christianity
- Starters - those who are new to a relationship with Jesus Christ and are just tearing the cellophane off their first Bible
- Returners - those who have some church experience, but have been away for a while
What can I expect to experience?
Starting Point groups (lasting 10 weeks) are designed with three main purposes in mind. When you join a group, you can expect to:
- Explore faith. We want to offer you a safe, no-pressure environment to explore, investigate, and discuss issues of faith. You’ll examine the uniqueness of Christianity in relation to other faiths, and experience the story of God from the beginning until now, and how it can impact your life story.
- Experience community. Of course, long-term relationships usually do not fully form in just a few months. But in light of the discussions that take place and the common bond group members share, participants can experience the beginnings of authentic community. After the group ends, many participants want to continue exploring faith and experiencing community in a long-term small group setting, called Life Groups.
- Enjoy conversation. Starting Point is primarily a conversational environment, not a teaching forum, an apologetics course, or a class on Christian theology. Naturally those elements may take place from time to time, but at its core, Starting Point is a conversational environment where discussion happens. Thus, Starting Point leaders are not teachers, but facilitators and fellow sojourners with you on your spiritual journey.
What is the size of a typical group?
Starting Point groups are typically eight to twelve participants and two to four leaders (for a maximum of sixteen people); a perfect size for great conversation and getting to know new friends.
When, where and for how long do groups meet?
The entire Starting Point experience is ten weeks. Some groups meet weekly, while others meet every other week in area homes.
How do I get started in a Starting Point group?
If you would like to join a group, you can sign up, purchase materials, or get more information at the “Connection Central” booth adjacent to the main church auditorium. (Scholarships are available if you are unable to purchase the modestly priced materials.) Also, we periodically host Starting Point Orientation meetings for anyone interested in getting involved. Orientation dates are announced in Sunday services, on our website, and in print newsletters.
