Parish Communities will meet in regular rhythms throughout the month, determined by group leaders.

Some groups will choose to meet all together once a month for fun and connection, and then break into bi-weekly men’s and women’s discipleship groups where they can engage in formative discussion and prayer.

Other groups will choose to meet altogether twice a month (or every other week) for a shared meal and discussion.

This variety will allow for the different needs and schedules of households throughout our community.

Seven Parish Communities are available throughout the city. Group locations and leaders were chosen through a demographic analysis of our members and regular attenders.

To foster continuity and discipleship, we encourage everyone to join the group closest to their home. That said, people are welcome to join any group they prefer. Groups will remain open and visible year-round to help newcomers connect.

To join any group, simple reach out to the leader (email is linked to their name).

As we seek to help people find a parish community closest to where they live, group sizes will vary. We’re seeking the “goldilocks-zone” - a parish community size that feels “just right” and allows for connection and life-on-life discipleship. That being said, groups that are smaller leave room for growth and the inclusion of newcomers. We’ve intentionally made efforts to keep groups at that vibrant and healthy size. And if they do become too large, we can always create additional parish communities.

We believe the best group experience comes from faithful attendance and active participation. However, there is no formal commitment—life happens, and we understand that members will miss from time to time.

Leaders are selected based on spiritual maturity, gifting, geography, and other practical factors. This role receives training in August and ongoing support from the Director of Formation.

As an expression of extended family, children are a welcome part of Parish Communities. We hope these gatherings form joyful memories of life in Christ. Each group will discern how to involve children in meaningful ways. For some groups, children will participate in every gathering. For other groups, they will be invited to the monthly all-group gathering, but not participate in men’s and women’s discipleship groups.

Group leaders will choose a discussion guide that fits their context. Options include sermon-based reflections, Daily Lectionary readings (such as Evening Compline), or short Christian readings. All materials will be accessible to newcomers and rooted in Scripture and gospel-centered theology.

Absolutely. Parish Communities are a place where people can belong before they believe. Through friendships, honest discussion, and shared life, the curious can experience the love of Christ and the beauty of Christian community. Check with your group leader or the Director of Formation on the best way to include visitors or friends.

Yes. Parish Communities will pause for  major holidays and during the summer. The group calendar will be communicated in advance so you can plan accordingly.

Sunday worship is the center of our life together as a church, and Parish Communities flow out of that shared life. They provide a space to live out what we hear and receive on Sundays in deeper community through formative discussion, prayer, and service to one another and our neighbors. 

We welcome your feedback—it’s essential to helping us grow and strengthen our ministry. If you have questions, concerns, or reflections about your experience in a Parish Community, please speak directly with your group leader. For deeper concerns or broader feedback about the vision or direction of the ministry, reach out to Martha Van Houten, the Director of Formation.