Life Groups
What is a LIFE Group?
A LIFE Group is a group of 8-12 people who meet, study, and ‘do-life’ together regularly for the purpose of growth and personal transformation in community. Life Groups can be Short-Term or Long-Term.
What is a Short-Term LIFE Group?
Held at Bethel typically on a week night, Short-Term Life Groups are 6-8 week studies that have a specific discipleship theme or focus, and are lead by one of Bethel’s pastors or trusted leaders. If you are new to Bethel, or new to Life Groups in general, than a short-term group is the first place to get plugged in! It’s a great way for you to get to know the people and pastors at Bethel, and for us to get to know you!
When do Short-Term LIFE Groups run?
We typically launch Short-Term groups three times per year: Fall (late-September), Winter (late-January), and Spring (April/May). Groups are announced well in advance so you have time consider the options and sign-up for the study that is right for you. When you sign-up we assume that you’re committing to attend all 6-8 weeks of the study, but we also understand that shift-work and life circumstances happen, so don’t write yourself off because your schedule doesn’t fit!
How do I sign-up for a Short-Term LIFE Group?
We’ll announce new Short-Term groups in the bulletin and during Sunday morning announcements, so keep your ears open, especially in early-Sept, early-Jan, and early-Spring. You can also check this page periodically for a list of upcoming groups, or email keri[at]bethelkingston.com.
What is a Long-Term LIFE Group?
This is a group that runs year-round with people who have committed to journeying together long-term. Long-Term groups are usually hosted at people’s homes on a week night, and they decide together what theme or topic to study.
How do I find or start a Long-Term LIFE Group?
By first getting involved in a Short-Term group, especially if you’re new to Bethel! It’s a great way for you to get to know the people and pastors at Bethel, and for us to get to know you! Long-Term groups often spring up out of Short-Term groups, with people who have gotten to know each other and commit to growing together further. And don’t worry, our Associate Pastor, Amanda Van Halteren, will guide you in this process of starting a new Long-Term group!
If you’ve done the Short-Term thing and are looking to join an existing Long-Term group, please contact amanda.bethelchurch[at]gmail.com. She would love to chat with you to get to know what you’re looking for, and get you connected with a group. (Please note that availability in Long-Term groups can sometimes be limited…which is why we encourage the growth of new groups!)
LIFE Group Values
BE PRAYERFULLY ENGAGED | We actively pursue spiritual intimacy with God through prayer, together.
BE WORD CENTRED |We engage in studies that bring deeper understanding of the Bible, striving to live under its’ authority.
BE A COMMUNITY GATHERED | We create safe, conversational spaces, and encourage growth through practical application in all areas of life.
BE A COMMUNITY SCATTERED |We find ways to serve the community beyond Bethel’s doors, serving as a group and/or as individuals.
What if I’m not ready for a LIFE Group?
In the Bible, Jesus didn’t call His disciples to join Him because they were ready – rather, it was journeying with Jesus that started their growth and discipleship!
Checking out a Short-Term Life Group is a great place to start your journey. There are no prerequisites for you to join; we simply ask that you be committed to respecting others, open to learning new things, and willing to participate in a safe space.
The only way to “get ready” is to get involved!
What if I’m unsure of this whole “Jesus” and “church” thing?
That’s ok! We are all on our individual journeys, but the best journey is one in community. We encourage you to check out one of our seeker or foundational Short-Term groups so you can explore and study your questions with others who probably have the same questions!
And if you’d like to talk to a Pastor about Jesus, church, or any other faith questions, please contact Mark Kotchapaw or Amanda Van Halteren.