Connect Groups FAQs
Learn more about NCF's Connect Groups here!
What is a Connect Group?
A Connect Group is a community of people who seek to tangibly reflect the redemptive love of Christ to one another as they share life together, deepen their faith in Jesus, and engage in service as a small group to meet needs within our community (inside the Church or outside).
How often will my group meet?
Groups either meet every week or twice a month. Check out our group page for information on that specific group.
How big will my group be?
Each group will be between 8 and 20 people, though groups may grow larger during a transition period.
The Connect Group in my area meets on night thaht I'm busy, what do I do? What if there's no group in my area?
While each group is primarily geographically located, feel free to get involved with a group outside your ZIP code if it fits your schedule and stage of life better. If there is no group in your area or on a night that works for your family, please contact the community life pastor.
Will I stay with my group for a long time?
Some groups will stay together for a long time, others will multiply into multiple different groups as our Church is blessed with new members and deeper relationships.
What will we do in a Connect Group?
What we do in Connect Groups is based around our 5 core practices: Sharing your life, sharing God's word, sharing in prayer, sharing a meal, and sharing in mission. For more information on our core practices, see our Mission Statement and Core Practices page.
What will the Connect Group discuss? Do I need to purchase a book?
The Connect Groups will discuss the sermon each week. The sermons will be available as podcasts, so no material is necessary to join a group or to partake in the discussion.
What's the difference between Connect Groups and Discipleship Groups?
While both Connect Groups and Discipleship Groups help NCF develop community, they differ in a few important ways. Connect Groups focus on fellowship, require minimal time or preparation, are mixed-gender, and are open to join at any time. In contrast, Discipleship Groups focus on spiritual growth and leadership. Because of this, they require a larger time commitment with advance preparation, are gender-specific, and only accept new members by invitation in the fall.
Can my neighbors from other churches be involved with my Connect Group?
The primary focus of Connect Groups is to cultivate a Gospel-centered community within New Covenant Fellowship. Alongside doing this, we are committed to exemplifying the unity of the body of Christ by being involved with and co-laboring alongside other churches within our community. We therefore recommend involving other Christian friends in our service and broader fellowship opportunities, but not in the regular meetings of Connect Groups.
What kind of service and fellowship opportunities will Connect Groups have?
Connect Groups will be able to design their own service opportunities and take part in broader church service opportunities. They could be community Christmas open houses, front yard harvest/trunk-or-treat festivals on or around October 31st, Summer BBQs, helping at a local food bank, and much more.
What if someone in my group needs spiritual care beyond my abilities?
While this group is designed to connect our church more closely together, never forget that you are part of a larger body of believers. As you delve into each other's lives, your pastors, elders, staff, and deacons are available to support you as you minister to one another.
Who will be in my Connect Group?
Connect Groups are composed differently. some of them are primarily age and stage, others are geographically situated. Check out our Groups Page in your Church Center App for information on the specific group you are interested in.
Will there be childcare?
Certain groups meet on Sunday nights during childrens' activities, some groups have childcare provided, and other groups do not have the capacity for childcare. Check out the Groups page in your Church Center app or contact the host for more information.
Who can join a Connect Group? Is there an age minimum?
Connect Groups do not have a strict age minimum. They are designed for families and singles to fellowship and connect together. For younger children, some groups have childcare, but teens and older children able to participate in conversation about the sermon are encouraged to attend. Check out the Groups page in your Church Center app or contact the host for more information.
Do I have to come to every Connect Group Meeting?
No. Connect Groups are designed to be flexible and provide you a space to fellowship during the week. Don't worry if you have to miss a couple.
Can I join a Connect Group at any time?
You can join a group anytime. Groups are open to visitors and new members throughout the year. If your group is getting too large for the space, the facilitator, host, and Community Life pastor will discuss a group multiplication.
Will my group meet during the Summer? Christmas? Thanksgiving?
Most Connect Groups meet less during the summer and holidays. Some groups meet only once a month in the summer, other not at all. Some groups have a Christmas party, others do not. Check out the Groups page in your Church Center app or contact the host for more information.