Small Group Ministry

What is Small Group Ministry?

The Goal of small groups is to facilitate Christian community.  People can gather and have community around different activities, interests, projects and needs.  When people gather for these and other reasons, relationships and community develop among the participants.  Because Christian faith is relational at its base, our Christian identity, our understanding of others, of God and the world around us is matured in these groups.  At shepherd of the Valley we have groups that study the Bible, gather to serve our community, discuss and wrestle with ideas, books and movies and to just have fun together.  We welcome you in to any group, or, if you have an idea to facilitate community, to start a group.  We hope that participation in any group at Shepherd of the Valley will:

  • Enrich each person's spiritual, emotional, physical and/or relational well-being.
  • Deepen each group's connectedness to one another and Christ.
  • Provide a place where grace can be experienced and the love of God is visible in the face of other people in that group.


Why join a Small Group...

  • It is a great place to meet new people and make lifetime friends.

  • It gives you a place to belong and a sense of community.

  • It gives you the kind of support you need to move forward in your spiritual journey.

  • It is a great place to uncover God's purpose for you in serving him and others.


What kind of Small Groups are there?

  • Fellowship
  • Bible Studies
  • Service and Outreach
  • Mutual Interest/Hobbies
  • Caring/Sharing Support
  • Prayer Groups


How often do Small Groups meet?

A Small Group can meet on any regular basis (weekly, monthly, quarterly) for any period of time (6 months, year or ongoing).



How do I get involved in a Small Group? 

You can:

  • contact the church office staff at (208) 362-1112 for information about various small groups that exist.
  • You can also choose the link on the right side of this page, which will open up the "small group calendar."

This calendar displays a monthly view of the various small groups and when they meet.  Click on any group displayed on the calendar to get more detailed information about meeting times and the location where the group meets.

If after looking at the information on the calendar, you still have questions, feel welcome to email the contact person for that group (to see the address you must click on the calendar listing). If there isn't a contact email or you still have questions about the small group ministry at Shepherd of the Valley, you can contact the Minister of Church and Community.

Can anyone start a new Group?

Disciples in the ministry at Shepherd of the Valley are encouraged to be a host or co-host and organize an activity. When possible we will try to suggest names of others who have expressed similar interest in participating in a group. Hosts are also encouraged to invite new and less active members and visitors to join their group.

Small Groups