Small Group FAQ

What’s a small group?

A small group is a band of individuals who meet on a regular basis to study God’s Word, fellowship, and pray. In the process, life-changing relationships are formed. This community provides encouragement for its members through the ups and downs of life.

What a small group is not!

Watch this fun video and learn what small groups are not.

How often do small groups meet?

Each small group decides how often they are going to meet. Many of the groups at Faith meet on a bi-weekly schedule, although others meet weekly

Where do small groups meet?

Small groups typically gather in a host home. Some groups always meet in the same home, other groups rotate around to different homes. There are a few groups who find it easier to meet in one of the classrooms at the church. Geographically, small groups meet throughout Muskoka.

Do the small groups follow a set curriculum laid out by the church?

No. Each group operates autonomously from one another with regard to choosing what they study. There are occasions during the year when we invite groups to join together in church-wide studies, such as the 2005 Purpose-Driven Life and 2007 God is Closer Than You Think campaigns.

How many people make up a small group?

Each group decides how many people will be in that particular group. We recommend, in order to maintain a healthy small group environment, that groups include no more than 12 people. Some groups are larger, many groups are smaller.

How many small groups are there currently at Faith?

The last count of groups was 19, representing approx 180 people.

What does a small group meeting involve?

Each group follows their own version of a similar, simple schedule. Typically, groups arrive and have a time of visiting with one another and enjoying a snack and beverages. There’s a brief time of Bible study followed by some time in prayer. Sometimes groups get together for special events like a Christmas party or Summer BBQ.

What is the leadership structure of the small group ministry at Faith?

There are 3 levels of leadership within our small group ministry. Faith has an Associate Pastor or Small Groups (Matt Kerr) who oversees the whole ministry. Matt has a Lead Team who assist him in the vision, planning, and implementation of all aspects of small groups. Lead Team members (of which there are currently four – Russ & Cheryl Buckerfield, Dave & Meredith Hiscox) have responsibility over a group of small group leaders. Small Group leaders lead their groups. Many also take on the responsibility of taking on the teaching although sometimes others in the group will help with the teaching.

Is there any criteria for being a small group leader?

Small group leaders play a key role in the health and relevance of our small groups. We certainly are looking for Christian individuals who have a heart for people. Small group leaders don’t have to be great Bible teachers although they should have a willingness to be stretched by God within the leader role. Each small group leader must be approved by the Associate Pastor of Small Groups. The only requirement beyond pastoral approval is that the person must be a member of Faith Baptist Church in good standing.

Are Small group leaders and hosts the same thing?

No. Small group leaders have responsibility to lead their group. Hosts have the responsibility of hosting the group in their home. We encourage these roles to be independent of each other. That is, we ask that group leaders not take on the responsibility of hosting. This is to help our groups have a healthy balance of responsibility. We don’t want any one person or couple carrying the majority of weight in a group.

How do I get involved in a small group?

It’s easy! Talk to Pastor Matt ( matt@faithhuntsville.ca

) or one of the Lead Team members on Sunday or call the church office at 789-2492. You can also fill in an online “sign up” form on the small groups home page. Follow this link!