Community Groups FAQ

How do Parkway community groups work? 

Community Groups meet weekly or bi-weekly to study God’s Word, pray, and enjoy fellowship with one another.

Although each group may look a little different (some may share a meal together, some may sing a few songs, etc.), group time is intentionally focused around the Bible. We read a passage from the Bible together, we study and discuss how to apply it to our lives, and we pray in response to the God who has spoken through His Word.

When do groups meet?

Meeting times vary from group to group, but they generally meet on weekday evenings or Sunday afternoons.

Are Parkway members required to join a group?

No. We know that biblical community can live (and thrive!) without being part of the “official” ministries of a church, and we’re thankful for the organic discipleship groups that exist within our church body. We offer Community Groups to provide two helpful advantages that  might not be present in other groups:

1. Pastoral oversight
   Since Community Groups are an “official” ministry of The Parkway Church, our staff and elders are more directly involved in each group’s leadership and the shepherding of its members. Specifically, Parkway’s leadership trains and equips group leaders, regularly checks in on group health to ensure each group is flourishing and functioning biblically, and provides guidance and counsel in the case that any issues arise.

2. Intentional Diversity
   Organic groups tend to be somewhat homogenous. It’s natural for people to form relationships with those similar to them. Whether it's toddler moms, retired couples, or Cowboys fans, people with similar interests or in the same life-stage don’t have much difficulty finding common ground. But there’s something supernatural and beautiful that happens when people who would not otherwise be united come around the Word and find unity in their Savior. 

Our hope is that our groups reflect that sort of supernatural unity. For this reason, none of our groups are formed on the basis of shared age, interests, or life-stage.

Who decides which group I join?

The short answer is: you do…and we’re happy to help.

If someone invites you to visit their group and you decide you’d like to join, then you are welcome to do that. However, some people prefer to be pointed toward a group. In that case, just let us know you would like to find a group and we’ll match you with one based on your location and availability. 

For help in finding a group, email Lee at: Lee@theparkwaychurch.com

How do groups study the Bible?

Each group leader has been trained to lead a Bible study. Our leaders are not meant to be “teachers” who prepare a lesson, but guides who help the group study the Scriptures together.

In this Bible study format, groups (1) read the passage aloud, (2) make observations together about what it is saying, (3) interpret its primary message, (4) meditate on the “big truths” it communicates about God, humanity, and Christ, and then (5) consider how to apply its message to their lives.

Now that I’ve joined a group, what is expected of me?

We encourage group members to make attending group meetings a priority–and don’t let intentionality stop at group attendance. Get to know, pray with, and encourage other members of your group apart from normal group time! This commitment and intentionality allows your group to play a crucial role in your obedience to the “one another” commands in the Scriptures.

How do groups fit into the life of Parkway?

We want groups to be a thoroughfare to community, not a cul-de-sac. That is, we hope your group plays an important role in your discipleship at Parkway, but we don’t want it to be the only way you’re involved. There are many other ways to get connected, serve, and grow at Parkway and we hope you take advantage of these. Your Community Group should be just one of the ways in which you are involved in the life of the church.

Do I have to be a member at Parkway to join a group?

No, but we’d hope that you’re somewhere in the membership process. Membership is the formal process of committing to a church, and biblical community flourishes within that commitment. If you decide that Parkway is not the local church you would like to join, then we would encourage you to find biblical community in the church where you do intend to pursue membership.

Who do I contact if I have a question?

You should contact your community group leader or Lee at: Lee@theparkwaychurch.com