What are small groups?
Groups of 8-12 people who meet together regularly to care for each other spiritually. Group meetings usually consist of a Bible study or group activity with a spiritual purpose.
When do small groups meet?
Usually on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month. We encourage small groups to minister to each other weekly, all the time. Because flexibility is one of our foundational principles (see more below) some groups will choose to meet on different nights or mornings.
Why should I be in a small group?
Because small groups are the basic building block for pastoral care; by that we mean they are the best place for caring, spiritual relationships to develop. Being involved in a small group also lends itself to a more engaging and active experience in the church than only attending worship or Bible classes.
What principles guide small groups at Bentonville?
Small groups can work in a myriad of ways, but we choose to focus on developing pastoral care. This means our goal is to have small groups who celebrate together, mourn together, care for each other's spiritual growth, and we want everyone to serve in their small group. To accomplish this we have laid out four principles: smallness, flexibility, consistency, and purpose. For more on how these apply, read the Small Group Brochure.
How do I join a small group?
You are welcome to join any small group to which you are invited; ask those in your Bible class about open groups. You can also contact the leader of an open group by using the guide included in the August 5, 2018 bulletin. If you need some more help, contact the office and we'll be happy to assist you.
