Our small groups have two purposes. First, to help us grow as disciples of Jesus so we can experience the fullness of life as God intends and learn how to help others become followers of Jesus too. Second, to help us make friends and develop deep, authentic relationships with other Christians who can support our spiritual journey. Our hope is that every member of our church will join a group because they are just as important as worship in helping us become more like Jesus. 

To accomplish these purposes, each group has four components. First, all offer a time of fellowship in which participants can get to know each other and develop strong friendships. Second, groups offer a time of learning to help participants become more mature followers of Jesus. Third, participants join together in some form of worship, such as praying for each other. Finally, each group plans and engages in a service project at least once a quarter. 

Discipleship groups meet weekly and follow a six-week rotation. In weeks 1-4, groups have regular meetings that include fellowship, a lesson, and a time of prayer. In week 5, groups share a meal together so participants can simply enjoy each other’s company and have fun. In week 6, groups either plan or carry-out a service project of their choosing. After completing the six-week cycle, it repeats. You can jump in a group at any point in the cycle. Throughout the year, participants decide together when the group needs to take a break.    

New groups are always starting, but here are a few to consider. If you would like more information about existing or upcoming small group opportunities, please complete the form below.

Men's Group (Hybrid)

Leaders: Jim Dale and Rick Sickles

Regular Meeting Time: Mondays from 7:15-8:45 p.m.

Place: Room 4 at First UMC with Zoom access for those out of town

Focused Learning Group/Book Study

Leaders: Phyllis Day and Janice Blackburn

Regular Meeting Time: Thursdays from 10:00-11:15 a.m.

Place: Room 4 at First UMC

Mixed, Open Small Group

Leaders: Emily Behrens and Gloria Chen

Regular Meeting Time: Thursdays from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Place: Emily and Gloria's Residence in Rockledge

Mixed, Open Small Group

Leaders: Sherry Atkins, Carrie Stafford, Becky Maynard

Regular Meeting Time: Tuesdays from 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Place: Condo Clubhouse, Cape Canaveral

Men's Breakfast Group

Leader: Pastor Mark

Regular Meeting Time: Thursdays from 7:30-8:30 a.m.

Place: Local Restaurants

This group of men use the same online Bible reading plan for daily personal devotions and then gather for breakfast to build authentic accountable relationships and discuss what they learning by studying scripture.

Young Couples Small Group

This group meets in the evening on the first and third Sunday of each month for dinner, fellowship, and discipleship studies. They typically gather at a local restaurant. This is a great way to get to know other younger couples from the church. 

Established Couples Small Group

This is another couples group that meets in the evenings on the second and fourth Sunday of each month for dinner, fellowship, and discipleship studies. They also meet at a local restaurant.

Online Bible Group

This group, led by Gabe Paoletti, uses the YouVersion Bible App and The Bible Project New Testament reading plan to form online community. Once you download the app and sign-up for the group, short daily scripture readings will be sent to your phone. After reading the passage, you can read comments left by the group leader and leave comments yourself. Since there is no regular meeting time, this group can easily fit into your schedule and put you in touch with others who are reading the same plan.

If you would like to try one of these groups, contact the church office and we will connect you with someone who can share more information and answer your questions.

Get your free PDF copy of the book Disciple Like Jesus that introduces the personal pathway to growth, encompassing six primary dimensions of our life as a disciple and movement toward the fullness of life that Jesus offers.