What is a Small Group?

Hebrews 10:24-25 “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

With more than 6,000 registered parishioners it is very difficult to get to know the people we are worshiping with on Sunday. At St. Columbkille we believe that our faith life is stronger the more we are connected with each other. Small groups are where our large parish gets small. Groups are between 6-12 people who meet together on a weekly basis to discuss life, faith, go deeper in the weekly homily message, and support one another in their relationship with Christ. Small Groups are where faith and life intersect, and positive change really happens. These groups are a place to care for others and be cared for; a place to impact our community and the world.

Why do we need Small Groups in Church today?

Acts 2:42-47 “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”

We are living in a time where practicing Catholicism and fostering a relationship with Jesus has fallen out of favor in our culture. Recent studies conducted by Pew Research and CARA on Catholic behavior in the United States paint a distressful picture. 10% of American adults are now former Catholics. 50% of these ex-Catholics are now unaffiliated with any religion while nearly 40% of them joined a protestant denomination. 25% of Americans now identity as having no religion at all with nearly 80% of former Catholics choosing to leave the Church before age 23. Of the many reasons why so many people left the Catholic Church in the US the largest ones are: 71% said they just gradually drifted away from Catholicism with 60% saying they simply stopped believing in Catholic teaching. Americans are suffering from anxiety, loneliness, and isolation more than ever.  

People are still searching for Love, Purpose, Meaning, and Belonging and Small Groups are part of the answer. It is nearly impossible to drift and be anonymous when you are part of a small faith sharing group. In small groups you have the bility to discuss Catholic teaching on a deeply personal level and grow to love our Lord. Jesus’ own life and ministry was based around small groups. From calling together the 12 Apostles to creating groups of disciples, Jesus understood that when you gather to pray, learn and share life you ultimately fall in love with God. 

How do I join a Small Group?

Joining a small group is easy. Simply call or email Scott Effertz in the rectory office at 216-524-1987 extension 15 or email: seffertz@stcolumbkilleparish.org