Discipleship isn’t a curriculum or collection of information we consume. It’s an honest journey with Jesus through the everyday stuff of life. DNA Groups are designed to bring discipleship into the ordinary – a smaller, relational environment of where we learn to recognize and respond to what God is doing in our story. Here’s what you need to know:

  • This group of 2-4 people exists on a foundation of mutual trust, respect, and confidentiality.
  • The focus of this group is forming deep, spiritual friendships.
  • This is a sacred space to share in one another’s lives.

How does a DNA Group meet?

  • Consistency and intentionality are key.
  • Consider meeting for 60-75 minutes 2x/month.
  • DNA Groups don’t have a sole leader. Each session should have a designated leader (any group member, perhaps on a rotating basis) who watches the clock, keeps the conversation on topic, and makes sure the next meeting gets scheduled.
  • You may meet in person, via Zoom, or in whatever format is agreed upon by all group members.

      In order to grow together, we need shared practices and commitments that guide our time together. Here are some helpful guidelines as you plan to gather as a group:

      • Respect the clock, sharing within 15-20 minutes so every group member can participate fully.
      • As you grow with your group, our prayer is that vulnerability will develop by choice.
      • The Holy Spirit is our one true guide and advocate. Listen to the Spirit during this time.
      • Have empathy. We are called to bless, encourage, and build up one another. Have compassionate curiosity toward yourself and others, rather than pity or judgment.
      • This group is confidential. Do not share what a person has said outside of this group, unless someone is being harmed or is in danger of harming themselves or another.

      The Use Of Prayer:

      • Be encouraged to know that these meetings are a kind of prayer in and of themselves. God is present in the group conversation. (Matthew 18:20)
      • Consider opening and closing each session with a short prayer in order to mark this time as set apart and focus your attention as a group. Below are some ideas. Experiment as a group and see what feels fruitful.

      Group Questions

      What has your experience of God been this week?

      When have you felt especially close to or distant from God this week?

      What have you struggled with or found joy in this week?

      Do you have a recent kairos moment you’d like to share? (More info on kairos is available in your group resources.)

      Opening Prayers:

      • Pray scripture, such as Romans 15:5-6, Ephesians 3:14-19, or Psalm 139:1-5.
      • Pray aloud: “Holy Spirit, we are listening. As we spend time together today, make us present to you and to one another. Guide us as we grow in love. Amen.”
      • Set a timer for a few minutes of silent reflection.

      Closing Prayers:

      • Pray scripture, such as Romans 15:13, Ephesians 3:20-21, or Psalm 121:5-8.
      • Pray aloud: “God, thank you for your presence. Thank you for what we’ve been able to share here today. Fill us with courage as we go from here. Amen.”
      • Take a few minutes to journal a written prayer based on the conversation you’ve just had.