1. What happens in a Interest Based Small Group Meeting?

A Small Group is a small gathering of up to 15 people.   By participating in Small Groups, you can expect to connect with others through a common interest or activity, engage in life giving conversation, study, praise and prayer while lives are being transformed into the image of Jesus Christ. Regardless of the type of group, we seek to love God, grow in God, serve God and share God together as a group.  The connection forms through regular meeting (fellowship) with a committed group of believers and this allows us to reinforce the core of what we believe so we can apply it to our lives and maintain the strength to serve others.

2.  How can I join a Small Group?  

Joining a group is easy! Participate in our annual Fall or Spring Group-Link (Small Group Fair). Afterwards, visit the Website: http//firstmountzionbc.org/how-to-connect/small-group/ Select a group that you have interest in, and simply contact the group leader via email to see if an opening is available. A Small Group consist of up to 15 participants

3. How often does a Small Group meet?

Small Groups meet for two semesters a year—Fall/Winter and Winter/Spring.

Please note:  As each semester convenes, all groups will close after the third meeting date to allow the group to move forward in completion of the semester study material.

2021-2024 Interest Based Small Group Session Dates:

• Fall: October 1, 2021 - January 31, 2022

• Spring: February 14, 2022 - June 30, 2022

• Fall: October 7, 2022 - January 31, 2023

• Spring: February 13, 2023 - June 30, 2023

• Fall: October 6, 2023 - January 31, 2024

• Spring: February 12, 2024 - June 30, 2024

There are NO Small Groups during the months of July and August

Depending on the type of group, or as decided by the group, they may meet the entire Small Group year and thereafter. During the semester and depending on the type of group, they can meet once a week, bi-weekly or monthly. Through the fellowship, Small Groups are meant to bring meaning and community into your life, so even if you’re unable to attend every meeting, there is still great value in joining a Small Group.

4. Where do Small Groups meet?

Small Groups meet in church, homes, parks, restaurants, coffee shops and office buildings, etc. The Small Groups Director and leader of the group will collectively select a meeting place that best fits the purpose of that particular interest group. Wherever you meet, you are the church in action.

5. How long does a typical Small Group stay together?

Most Small Groups meet for a semester. This way, new people can join groups easily and regularly. Also, the semester format allows you to try multiple groups each year which unites you with a new community of members. As relationships form, some groups choose to stay together for consecutive semesters, but new members are always welcome.

6. Is childcare available?

Childcare varies from group to group and will be determined at the group level. When you search for a Small Group, the group profile will indicate if childcare is available.

7. What if the Small Group I select is not a great fit for me?

We encourage you to select a few groups that interest you, contact the leaders of the groups and consider visiting them before choosing the best one for you. It is fine to visit multiple groups before deciding on which one to join.  Please note, due to our semester schedule, each group will close after the third meeting to allow the group to move forward with the course of study and or recreation. You will always be given the opportunity to select a Small Group during the upcoming semester. The simple strategy to finding success in Small Groups is “Do not give up”! We believe there is a Small Group for everyone including you!

8.  How can I form a Small Group?

There will be a “new interest group form” available for you to complete and submit for review on the FMZ website: http//firstmountzionbc.org/how-to-connect/small-group/ or you can call Stephanie M. Craddock, Small Groups Director at (703) 670-0184

9. Do I have to be a member of FMZ to join a Small Group?

No, you do not have to be a member of FMZ to join a Small Group.

10.  Do I have to be a member to lead a Small Group?

Yes, you must be a member of FMZ for at least 6 months to lead a Small Group and you must have completed the Small Group Information Session and Leader Training Session.

11.  What are the prerequisites if I lead a children/youth Small Group?

Before you lead any children’s or youth Small Group you must complete the volunteer screening provided at FMZ.  Please look at the church calendar for Volunteer Screening dates.