Small Group Ministry

Community Life at Foothills  

We believe that one of the best ways to live out our faith is in community with one another.  Building community in small groups at Foothills will help us to “Do Life Together” where we can deepen our faith with God through friendships, study, laughing and praying together.

Our Vision for Small Groups at Foothills:
To build authentic community where everyone has the opportunity to experience transforming relationship. 

What happens in a Foothills Small Group? 

• Sharing:  Learning about one another as you become a caring community in Christ.
• Bible Study:  Exploring the Bible through a variety of formats and/or curriculum with lots of interaction as you apply the Bible to your everyday life.
• Prayer:  Conversing with God as you experience His strength for facing the challenges of life.
• Outreach & Service:  Participating together to connect more people to your small group and participating in service together.

Small Groups make a difference.  Click on the video image left to hear a few testimonials from our YouTube video.

How can I get involved in a Small Group?

You can either join an existing small group that is currently open, (see list below) or begin a group with friends or neighbors that you know already-  or join other folks whom are new to Foothills and would like to be in a small group.  To help you connect you can complete and submit the Small Group Sign-up Form, 

GROUPS CURRENTLY OPEN to others joining:

Women's Small Group

 If you are interested in gathering together for spiritual growth, service and fellowship, contact Marilyn Honea at mjhonea@cox.net. 

Meets every Thursday, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. on campus in the James Room.   They are primarily a book discussion group.  For interested participants contact Carol Conklin at carol.conklin@cox.net .  Childcare available with reservation.

Men's Small Group

Mens small group meets every other Wednesday evening in homes.  They are currently using as their discussion guide a book called The Lords Prayer.  Contact Ron Shelby at 444-9031 or email ron-marge@cox.net for information.

EarthCare Small Group

Would you like to gather in a small group concerned about the environment to plan and discuss ways to make a difference together?  We gather every other Thursday at 6:30 p.m. in the Small Group room on campus.  Childcare available with reservation.  This group combines a devotion with caring and sharing, while focusing our desire to educate our congregation, provide service opportunities and inspire action.   Email Jeanette Ham . 

Roots & Shoots - Children / Youth Environmental small group

We meet every Sunday at 11:30 a.m. on campus in the Discipleship Room, or in the Community Peace Garden  located above the upper parking lot.   Roots & Shoots offers a fun, flexible and supportive environment where young people and adults alike come together to share ideas and inspiration, implement community service projects that make positive change happen -- for our communities, for animals and for the environment.  Founded in 1991 by Dr. Jane Goodall, UN Messenger of Peace and world-renowned primatologist and conservationist.  Email Jeanette Ham .   www.rootsandshoots.org

JOY couples group.  

The JOY group gathers weekly on Sunday evenings from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.  normally meeting in the James room on the church campus, that also includes a monthly home fellowship gathering.  In addition to meeting weekly, they have one mission project 4 times a year focusing on Youth.  For interested participants contact Debbie Palmer at dmpalmer@cox.net.  

FAQs about Small Groups

What is a Foothills Small Group?
A gathering of 8 -12 individuals committed to meeting regularly to nurture one another towards becoming deeply committed Christians by providing an environment for community, service and spiritual transformation.

Where do Small Groups meet?
Most Foothills Small Groups meet in the homes of Foothills members who live in your neighborhood, and some also meet on the church campus. 
  

Who leads a Small Group?
Small group leaders are members of Foothills who act as encouraging group guides.  But we also believe in shared responsibilities and leadership in our small groups, as this strengthens and equips all of of us to grow in our gifts, skills and faith. 

If you think you would like to be a Small Group Leader/Guide, please contact Jeanette Ham at 670-4009, ext. 228 to discuss this opportunity.

What are the qualities of a Small Group Leader/Guide?

• Open to new people joining
• Loving and caring heart for people
• Willing to participate, whenever possible, in training and leadership retreats
  Foothills is their "home"
• Have a growing personal relationship with Jesus

What is the heart and attitude of a Leader of Foothills UMC?

• Humble (servanthood)
• Positive
• Joyful
• Committed to Christ
• Devoted to the purpose and vision of Foothills UMC

Who do I contact with my questions?
Email Jeanette Ham, staff person for Welcoming & Community Life or call 670-4009.