Christ Community
Community Groups
Why community?
Community is where we live out our vision to make disciples of Jesus to love, serve, grow and renew.
God roots our maturity in community. That’s not because God is a fan of “doing church.” It’s because God desires us to experience the loving communion that exists between Father, Son, and Spirit. Also, because doing life together with others forms us more into the image of Jesus. This is the value of a Community Group. They remind us that since Jesus established the church to function as an embassy of his Kingdom reign and rule, smaller yet visible outposts are needed to represent his name and practice his ways—for the growth of each other and the good of Franklin.
We place a high emphasis on encouraging every follower of Jesus to prioritize their formation in Christ—through sharing life with others and to move beyond living “alone” and practice living your life in Christ—with others—in a Community Group.
Your questions answered.
A glimpse into community groups
What is a Community Group?
Christ-followers who are committed to practice living lives of love, service, growth, and renewal – together – for the good of each other and our greater Franklin community.
Why do we encourage you to participate in Community Group?
We know all too well that maturity takes time. The New Testament reveals the process of our maturity in Christ through the language of “each other:” Love one another, forgive each other, regard each other more highly than yourselves. Teach and correct each other, encourage each other, pray for each other, and bear each other’s burdens. Be friends with one another, kind, compassionate, and generous in hospitality. Serve one another and submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This list just scratches the surface, but it is enough to remind us that we need the community of faith to grow us up into Christlikeness. As we live in community together, we will embody the very fullness of Christ to the world at large – which is also desperately needed.
Is a Community Group only for members of Christy Community Church?
Most groups are comprised of members and visitors. Church membership is not required to participate.
How are Community Groups organized?
We want the best ‘fit’ for you and your household. Therefore, we will match you with a group that aligns with your geography & the stage of life you find yourself in. Of course there are other elements that go into connecting you, and we are happy to discuss with you.
Who are Community Groups for?
You! Community Groups are for men and women; for individuals, friends, couples, and families; and for all ages from young adults to seniors. Group options are available with different meeting times, frequency, location, childcare needs, and more. This is an excellent way for those new to our community and for longtime members to connect, for those in a new phase of life to find others to walk alongside them, for individuals feeling isolated to find community.
What does a typical Community Group do together?
While the structure of a Community Group can vary, all groups reflect our commitment to practice living out lives of love, service, growth, and renewal. So, a typical group may involve sharing a meal together, discussing the sermon, doing some spiritual practices, i.e. prayer, serving together etc., and/or simply sharing life together.
Who can join a Community Group?
Registration windows for being matched up with a group will take place each August and January. If you are interested in joining a group outside of August & January, we offer Short-term Community Groups. We will certainly talk this through with you if this is the case.
How frequently do Community Groups meet?
Generally, groups generally meet twice/month, in the homes of group members. We direct Community Groups in conjunction with the school year calendar, meaning most groups begin in August and pause for the summer starting in May. Although it is up to each group to decide if they will continue to meet through the summer or break over summer.