Discussion Groups

What are groups?

A group is a set of about 3-12 people with a shared interest in the New Church.

What’s in it for me?

Feel included, inspired, and loved! Get to know yourself better and make new friends.

What about content?

Choosing content to explore and discuss is up to the interests of the group. Some groups are more intellectually oriented. Others emphasize more heartfelt sharing. Some put extra attention on usefulness and service. You can find many resources on New Church Books

Where & when do groups meet?

Groups can meet in person, online, or hybrid. Online groups are popular and effective! In-person and hybrid groups benefit from a host who provides a suitable meeting environment. Scheduling and regularity of meetings varies by the group’s preferences. Some groups only meet several times or seasonally. Others meet weekly, every 2 weeks, monthly, or quarterly. Length of meetings is often 60-90 minutes.

How do groups run?

Our suggested meeting format includes an opening welcome, brief prayer or meditation, check-in, content exploration and discussion, closing thoughts, and the Lord’s prayer. Some groups invite members to take turns with different features of the meeting such as offering a prayer, leading a meditation, timekeeping, or introducing a topic for discussion. Each group agrees together on guidelines for their meetings.