Small Groups
At ODC, we desire to cultivate communities on a mission. Small Groups are the heartbeat of our church and serve as the primary setting for members to grow spiritually as they seek to live out the mission of ODC. A Small Group consists of 6-12 adults who are meeting together regularly, continually encouraging one another to mature in their faith, and serving to meet each other’s needs. In Small Groups we experience care and accountability in the context of authentic relationships.
ODC has two types of Small Groups:
1. Growth Groups
Growth Groups are our basic, entry level small groups and consist of 6-12 adults who meet for 12 weeks to go through a study on the Gospel. The goal of a Growth Group can be summarized by two words: Gospel and community. The idea is for the group to form a common vocabulary to begin to talk about how the Gospel transforms our lives, and for the members to be experiencing the transforming power of the Gospel within the context of community as they begin the process of getting to know one another. At the end of the 12 weeks, the group decides whether they want to continue for another 12 weeks or not. In the end, the hope is that each Growth Group will eventually become a Life Group by making a deeper commitment to sharing their lives with one another.
2. Life Groups
Life Groups are committed small groups sharing life together with the aim of growing spiritually through authentic relationships. Every Life Group begins as a Growth Group, but the difference is that Life Groups are essentially committed to a deeper level of community and discipleship with one another.
How can I get involved in a Small Group at ODC?
Suggestions for starting or joining a Growth Group
1. Ask people you know if they’d like to start a Growth Group.
2. Ask an existing Small Group if they’re open to adding new members.
3. Start a Growth Group with people from your area of service (Service Opportunities in the Church, Local Outreach Opportunities)
4. Or attend Group Link - a periodic gathering where you can meet people who are interested in starting a new Growth Group.
How do I officially join a small group?
Once you have decided who will be in your group, and you’ve made a commitment to meet regularly, the next step is to contact Bill Magsig at billm@olivedrivechurch.com. We will provide the resources and the support your group will need to thrive.
What is Group Link?
Group Link is an event where you will have a chance to connect with others and form a Growth Group. It is a great step to take in pursuing community in your life when the other suggestions above don’t pan out. Group Link is designed to make the process of joining a group easier and less intimidating. We will help you meet others who are interested in joining or forming a group, and we’ll help you decide which group is the best fit for you. The goal is that everyone who attends Group Link is connected to a Growth Group by the end of the night.
People who connect to or form a Growth Group through Group Link will be asked to commit to meet with their group for 12 weeks. After that time, the group will decide whether they want to continue to meet together or not (see the description of Growth Groups on the previous page).
The dates for upcoming Group Links can be found on our website, or you can contact Bill Magsig at billm@olivedrivechurch.com for more information and upcoming dates.
Can I lead a Growth Group?
Yes! In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul exhorts Timothy to “set the example for other believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
If you’re interested in leading a Growth Group, please contact Bill Magsig at billm@olivedrivechurch.com or call 661-393-8210.
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