Groups

Small groups are hands down the best way to make friends and build relationships at a2. There’s nothing quite like circling up with a few other people and doing life together on a regular basis.

What is a small group?

It’s people coming together around a common interest–Ultimate Frisbee, cooking, marriage, money management, Bible study, just to name a few… It’s a group of people who meet regularly in someone’s home or other meeting place to eat together, laugh together, study the Bible together, pray together and just do life together. It’s community at its best: authentic relationships grounded in biblical faith.

Are small groups really important?

We really believe being involved in authentic, biblical community isn’t optional for the child of God. It’s essential. In fact, our hope for every person at a2 Church is that they participate in the corporate Sunday morning worship experience, commit to doing life with a small group, and get involved in hands on ministry. We believe that we were made for relationships and that lasting life change, personal transformation, and spiritual growth best occur in the context of authentic biblical community (Acts 2:42; 46-47; 1 John 4:7, 13).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do small groups provide childcare?

Great question. Some groups do… Some groups don’t… Groups that provide childcare are indicated in the small groups directory.

Do small groups provide refreshment/food?

You bet! Most groups either provide refreshments or meet at a place where you’re free to grab a cup of Joe or a full meal.

Will I have to pray in front of anyone?

Nope! Not unless you want to! No one is ever singled out to do anything in front of the group. Only you determine the level of your participation, interaction, and involvement.

Should I bring a Bible?

Sure! Having a Bible when you show up is great, but it’s not a requirement. Plus, if you want a Bible, but don’t have one, your small group leader will provide one for you!

When and where do groups meet?

Small groups meet in homes, coffee shops, restaurants, workplaces, and parks across the Birmingham area—any space that can host a group of people for an hour or more is a potential meeting spot, and there’s likely to be one near your home or office. Groups also meet throughout the week and at different times of the day, from 6:30 in the morning before work to evening groups—and you might even find a lunchtime or afternoon group in the mix, as well.

How long do small groups typically last?

Great question! Most groups last about an hour. But the structure of the group depends on the people and the topic. Starting and ending times vary and will be always be included in the Small Groups directory.

Why don’t small groups run year round?

A couple of reasons: short semesters give leaders a chance to take a break and get refreshed. It also gives us a chance to offer a variety of topics and add additional groups three times a year. Finally, it gives new people the opportunity to get involved by joining a group or taking the plunge into small group leadership.

Who can I talk to if I have questions about Small Groups?

We want to hear from you. If you’ve got any questions, feel free to contact Dan Butcher at groups@a2church.org or 205-370-0541.

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