Like physical fitness, spiritual health is an ongoing need if we are to continue to experience all that God has for us. Small groups offer a context where we can grow in our relationship with God and enjoy what He can do when people connect meaningfully. While prayer and discussion are key elements of a group time together, the driving force behind a group coming together is the building of relationships.

The goal is for our small groups to be places where we are growing in the 3 crucial relational areas of our lives: Intimacy with God, community with one another and influence beyond the Church.

That growth is measured by progress in our ability to love God and to love in horizontal relationships with those around us.

As Jesus said:  “Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence… Love others as well as you love yourself. These two commands are pegs; everything in God's Law and the Prophets hangs from them." Matt 22:37-40 (Message)

What Happens in Small Groups?

Friendships are made:

Lasting friendships are made in small groups. Ideally, a group of eight to twelve individuals agree to meet regularly for Bible study and prayer and commit to accountability, friendship & support.

An environment of mutual care is offered:

Small groups at Gateway are also the primary care providing mechanism in our church. In a large church, being in a small group is vital if you are to build relationships that can in significant ways, both celebrate the good and support in the bad.

Christian Growth:

Small groups offer a safe place to ask questions, share life stories and together discover the reality of living life as a follower of Jesus.

Group members are encouraged to be participants not mere passengers

- Contributing to meaningful conversations and sharing stories

- Pursuing authentic community (with accountability, belonging and care)

- Pursuing spiritual growth

Small Group Leadership:

Small Group Leaders.....

...Guide the discipleship journey of the group & nurture an environment of care for one another.

....Facilitate care where there is a need requiring more resources than the group can give e.g. guide the way to counseling & pastoral support; co-ordinate meals, clothes and prayer ministry etc.

.....Facilitate group growth and change.