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FAQs
- What is a LIFE Group?
- Why are LIFE Groups important?
- Why do I need to go to a group if I already go to church?
- At a church the size of Northside, it’s easy to feel like another face in the crowd. How do you begin to make friends and grow spiritually? How can you get answers to questions and go deeper with Biblical truths? LIFE Groups are the places where all that happens.
- Are all LIFE Groups the same?
- Absolutely not! At Northside we have all kinds of groups because we have all kinds of people. Groups are typically organized around age and/or gender considerations - so there’s a group for everyon. We have groups for the following: married couples, singles, mixed, women, men, college, young adult, young married & the grieving. Also, groups are free tos tudy the curriculum that best meets their needs. Some groups go deeper with the weekend message, some study a book of the Bible, and others study a specific topic.
- What happens at a group meeting?
- Every group is different, but there are some common denominators. Most groups have a time for just hanging out & talking about the week and what’s going on in life. The central component is a study of something relevant to the members of the group, where everyone is encoouraged to get in on the discussion. Finally, our groups make time to care and pray for one another.
- Do I need to bring anything to the group meeting?
- Besides a willingness to grow and try something new, we recommend that you bring a Bible, a pen or pencil, and something to write on - but these are not requirements to attend.
- When and where do groups meet?
- The groups meet all throughout the week, generally in homes throughout the city. However we do have some groups that meet in the church building.
- How often do LIFE Groups meet?
- We encourage groups to meet weekly, but there are a few that meet every other week or monthly. Often groups will take a break during hte busy summer months.
- How long does each group meeting last?
- Each group picks the length of time they will meet, usually an hour and a half to two hours.
- How long does a typical group stay together?
- As long or as short as the participants want them to last! We actually encourage groups to continue indefinately, but multiply at least every 18 months. This means that every group is encouraged to have an Apprentice that will one day start his/her own group. The Apprentice may take some of the existing group along while starting the new group, or may simply start a new group on their own.
- What do groups study?
- Each group picks their own curriculum to study with the help of the group Shepherd (leader). Shepherds have access to a curriculum library at the church which supplies many relevant studies to meet the specific needs of every group.
- Do you have a group especially designed for new Christians?
- Great question! First, we would encourage any new Christian to attend our "Life Development Process" classes. It only takes 7 weeks, and will build a solid foundation for your Christian life. After these classes we’d love for you to get into a LIFE Group, preferrably a new group. We do not want to put you into a group with only new Christians, because a lot can be learned from those who are ahead of you in ther Chrisitan walk. We say that we’d like for you to get into a brand new group because we encourage each of our new groups to begin with our "Connections" study. In "Connections" you’ll study (and discuss) these topics together. Bible basics, how to have a personal Bible study, how to have a personal prayer time, service, evangelism, stewardship, knowing God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, trials & temptations & the focus of a Christian.
- Do I have to know a lot about the Bible to be a part of a LIFE Group?
- No, but I will guarantee that if you hang in there with a group, you will find yourself learning more and more about the Bible.
- Am I expected to pray out loud at a group meeting?
- No! LIFE Groups are intended to provide a safe environment where individuals’ comfort levels are respected. People are not expected to share beyond their comfort levels.
- Is child-care provided for each group meeting?
- Each group arranges for their own child-care needs.
- Can I join a LIFE Group if I’m not a member of NCC or even a Christian?
- Absolutely! We’d love to have you join one of our groups. Actually, getting involved in a group is a wonderful way to check out the claims of Christ, and the ministry of His church.
- What if I don’t like the group that I visit?
- Try another one! It might take a few tries before you find one that really feels right.
- How do I join a LIFE Group?
- What do I do if I can’t seem to get into a group?
- Call Pastor Gary at 323-9675 x31, or email him for assistance in getting into a group.
- How do I start a group in my home?
- Call Pastor Gary at 323-9675 x31, or email him for information on starting your own group.