Frequently Asked Questions

What’s a Life Group?
A Life Group is a small group made up of 10-16 people in the same stage of life or mixed stages that meet weekly to share, study and support one another. Trained leaders facilitate each group. An average meeting lasts 1.5-2 hours with a study and prayer. Most groups share light refreshments or a meal. 

How do I sign up?
In order to sign up for a group, you must attend the Workshop + Sign Ups. We offer the Workshop + Sign Ups 4 times each year; once in January, April, July and October. 

What if I am out of town on Sign Up Sunday?
Most groups will fill up on Sign Up Sunday that is why we only do one day, but we do continue to place new members into groups the next few weeks only as spots are available. In order to sign up for a “best fit” group, it is highly encouraged that you commit to attending on Sign Up Sunday. 

What is the required commitment in joining a Life Group?
Joining a Life Group requires a 9-week commitment to attend weekly meetings. Commitment is key to a strong group.

If my group isn’t a good fit for me, can I switch groups?
We highly encourage you to stick it out in the group for one full session, it is 9 weeks. It takes time to click with others and build meaningful relationships. We also know that time is precious and that we crave community and connection. With that being said, prior to switching groups, someone from our Life Groups Team would love to have a conversation with you. 

What if all the groups available for me are closed?
If groups are labeled closed, that means they are unavailable or in session. If you have questions, please contact our Life Groups Team.

When and where do Life Groups meet?
The majority of Life Groups meet on various days of the week in the evening. Some groups meet on Sunday’s or during the day. Groups meet weekly throughout the Quad-City area and beyond.  

What do Life Groups study?
What groups study can land in two different areas. The first and most commonly used are sermon based notes. Our pastors author sermon notes with questions and verses to accompany the sermon each week. These are provided every week on Sunday’s; either hard copy in the Life Groups room or electronically attached to the sermon. The second type of study groups do is topical; this is based on “need-to-know” seasons of life. For example, a young married group focusing on finances or marriage, or a young adult’s group studying identity in Christ, etc. 

How much does it cost?
Monetarily, Life Groups are free! The only cost of Life Groups is the cost of commitment. During the first few meetings of new groups launching, each group will complete a study together that goes deeper into the 3 Pillars of Life Groups. This simple study helps each group discuss priorities and commitments. Part of that commitment is the promise to attend each week.

Some groups do topical studies which may require the purchase of books or study materials. Once you are in a group, connect with your leader regarding this. 

When you join a Life Group, you’re promising to attend and be prepared each week. It’s this commitment that makes Life Groups work. We realize it’s a big commitment, but it only lasts for 9 weeks. At the end of each quarter, you have the choice of recommitting for another quarter, trying a new group or taking a break from Life Groups altogether.

How do I choose a group?
When selecting a group, we strongly recommend you choose a group based on the leader’s snapshot and stage of life rather than the group’s location or meeting day. Over the years, we’ve found that groups do best when members share a common stage of life and interests with their leaders and other group members. In the end, you’ll find it’s well worth the drive!

Our groups are divided in the following stage of life groupings: Young Adults, Young Marrieds, Young Families, Parents of Children K-6, Parents of Teens, Empty Nest, Senior Adults, All Stages/Mixed, Specialty Groups, etc. Remember, these stage of life titles are intentionally kept broad and are meant to help you self-select an appropriate group for you. They are not intended to box you in.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call our team, and we will gladly assist you. Keep in mind that it might take two or three groups and/or sessions before you find the perfect fit, but don’t worry, you’ll find it and it is worth it because life is better connected. 

Is childcare provided?
Life Groups are for adults only. Childcare is left up to each group and its leader. The majority of groups do not offer childcare. The groups that do offer it may have a set price per child or may require that each family provides their own childcare.