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SMALL
GROUPS
&
CONNECT
GROUPS
As a church we want to be big and small at the same time with people relating in small groups as well as being a part of the larger congregation. We have two opportunities for you to engage with:
If you are with us at Testwood and want to get connected in, one of the ways you can do this is by joining a Small Group that meets regularly to encourage, build up and explore God's word together. Small Groups are a great place to pray together, go deeper in our discipleship and understanding of God's Word.
Below are a list of our current Small Groups. If you would like to join a Small Group to further your discipleship, do get in touch with Jim Shepherd and he'll support you in finding the right place for you.
Below is also a link to our Small Group notes for those who access them.
We want all people to feel connected and belonging to our church family. Below are a number of themed groups that allow us to have fun doing all sorts of fun activities together.
Below are a list of our current Small Groups. If you would like to join a Small Group to further your discipleship, do get in touch with Jim Shepherd and he'll support you in finding the right place for you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a connect group?
A connect group is a themed group which allows people to meet in the mid-week, usually to engage in an activity together, such as cycling or playing board games. However, a connect group could be used to simply meet with others for coffee.
How can I start one?
Well, you don’t need to wait for the pastors to set it up, although the pastors can help you publicise the group across the life of the church. If you want to reach out to others in the church, then do arrange to meet with Jim Shepherd and he can talk with you about this in more detail.
How will people find out about my Connect Group?
If you would like to establish the group more centrally within the life of the church, then during a meeting with Jim, the group can be placed onto ChurchSuite and made available through the church website. Groups will then be published through the church newsletter, and at times, be mentioned as a spotlight in church services.
Does this mean I’m a ‘Small Group Leader’?
Slightly different, you’re a ‘connect group leader’. We see the purpose of these groups as something different to that of a small group. They are (absolutely) valuable to the life of the church though, as connect groups allow people to feel a sense of belonging to the church community, even if they are right at the start of their discipleship journey or perhaps not yet exploring the Christian faith.
Can I use social media for my Connect Group?
You can, but here are the rules. Social media groups are only for adults. For example, you might like to use ‘WhatsApp’. Please don’t include under 18s in any WhatsApp groups. Although a parent could be included if arranged with them directly.
How else can I communicate with those who have signed up to my Connect Group?
Limited access will be granted on ChurchSuite to allow you to email those who have signed up to the group. Please contact Hannah Shepherd / Nathan Parry regarding any questions around this.
Do I need to be DBS checked?
Yes please, if you want your group to be published on the church website and announced to the church community, then we like all those in a leadership position to hold a current DBS check. Please contact Sarah John / Paul Lailey for more information.
What about pastoral or safeguarding concerns?
Pastoral - If a member of your group is linked to a ‘Small Group’, it might be first wise to advise them to share with their small group leader. Or they can contact the church office to arrange to meet with a member of the Pastoral Care Team. Safeguarding – If your group becomes established, having met with Jim and placed onto the ChurchSuite system, the Safeguarding team will provide some training for you on what to look out for and how to raise these concerns.