Life Groups

We believe that faith is not meant
to be lived alone.

Life Groups are the heart of our community at New Bridges, providing a space for connection and growth beyond Sunday mornings. These groups are intentionally designed to help us build relationships on three levels. We connect with each other through genuine conversation and care; we connect with God’s Word by exploring the Sunday sermon or other relevant studies together; and we connect with the wider church by staying informed, praying for one another, and caring for those in our group. Whether your primary desire is to build strong friendships or to dive deeper into scripture, our Life Groups offer the flexibility to meet you where you are. They are the perfect place to find your people and grow in your walk with Christ. 

More about Life Groups

How are Life Groups formed?
We are using a combination of invitation and sign-ups to populate the Life Groups. There is a simple sign-up form that is shared in the weekly newsletter (it will also be placed in the Website once it is finished). The form includes a list of currently open groups. Once you sign up, the Shepherd (group leader) will get in touch with you to provide you with more details. 
Are the Life Groups geographical or demographical?
Since the Life Groups will be meeting on Zoom and in-person, there are no geographical restrictions for the Life Groups. You can sign up for any of them regardless of where you live or where the shepherd lives. While some groups have a specific focus, most groups will be "mixed and open." It means that there are no restrictions or preferences built in as to the type of group - defined by gender, life stage, theme, etc. The primary basis for signing up for a Life Group will be according to one's preference for shepherd and/or focus. 
What if none of the days/times works for me?
Please let us know! And let us know if there is a different day and time that would work. Our vision is to launch new Life Groups throughout the year. Our hope is to add new Life Groups as the need and interests arise. Also, we are hoping to create demographic/life-stage/interest Life Groups in the future (e.g. Family based, single professionals, LGBTQI+, Men's, Women's, etc.). As we are hoping and expecting growth in the larger community, we will always have need and opportunities to launch new groups. One of the keys to making this happen is to find and nurture new shepherds to lead. If you have interest in shepherding a group in the future, please let us know! 
Is there anything else I should know about Life Group?
Life Group is not simply a "program" at New Bridges UMC. This is a gathering that complements, and in many ways completes our Sunday Worship experience. We believe that consistent and committed participation in Life Group will be one of the best ways that you can grow in your faith and in your discipleship. Following Jesus means doing life the way that He did. And from the beginning of His ministry, Jesus chose to do life with the twelve that He specifically invited to follow Him. Life Group is our continuation of the example Jesus set two thousand years ago. We take this very seriously and we are fully committed in helping you pursue a life with God and life with others. 
What if I have other questions or concerns?
Please reach out to Pastor Jaekuk at (jaekuk@newbridgesumc.org). We are always open to engage in conversation regarding the vision and power of our Life Groups ministry!