Community Groups (CG's) are the main place to get connected at Bay Area.
CG's gather and grow disciples who go and bless their neighbors. We do that by living out a rhythm of love: loving God back (UP), loving each other (IN) and loving their neighbors (OUT).
UP: LOVE GOD BACK through worship & prayer.
IN: LOVE EACH OTHER through care & growing in God's Word.
OUT: LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS by blessing them in simple, tangible ways.
IN: LOVE EACH OTHER through care & growing in God's Word.
OUT: LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS by blessing them in simple, tangible ways.
If you're ready to take jump right into a Community Group, click the buttons below to fill out an interest form or check out our interactive CG map below!
Join a Community
If you're ready to take your next step in getting plugged into community, sign up for one of our open Community Group. Click the button below to learn more and register.
Lead a Community Group
Are you interested in leading a Community Group? If so, please fill out the form below and one of our Community leadership team will contact you soon!
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about Community Group? Click below to explore our FAQ's and learn more!
CHECK OUT OUR INTERACTIVE CG MAP!
Use this map below to see our current groups, the times and dates they meet, and more! The markers on the map do not reflect the exact location each group meets.
Click the interactive icons on the map to see more information about our CG's!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a Community Group?
A Community Group is a group of Christ followers that are committed to loving God back, loving each other, and loving their neighbor. We call these commitments the “UP, IN, and OUT”. Practically, they meet regularly for Bible discussion, prayer, fellowship, and regularly serve their neighbors and the community at large.
Is a CG the same as a Bible study?
A CG is not a place where a leader teaches the Bible in monologue lecture style or a question/ answer book study. However, the CG leader facilitates a Bible discussion. Many CGs discuss the Bible passages from the Sunday sermon. In addition, our CGs are much more than a Bible discussion group, it is also a group that focuses on prayer, relationships, mutual encouragement and serving others.
Where do CGs meet?
Most CGs meet in a home setting in different locations around Anne Arundel County.
Are the CGs separated in any way by age or location?
Some CGs have a tendency to gather by age group or geographic location, but that is not restrictive. Other groups are intentionally diverse and multigenerational. Life-giving spiritual relationships are our primary focus in creating a healthy group dynamic.
How large is an CG?
A CG is usually between 10-20 people.
How often does a CG meet?
A CG meets weekly, biweekly or twice per month.
Can children come to a CG?
Currently, some groups include children, but many do not. It is up to the leader if they can accommodate children in their home and how the group wants to handle care and engagement of the children.
Who can lead a CG?
Anyone who loves Jesus and is a ministry partner at Bay Area (or will be within 6 months) can lead a CG. Someone who is willing to invest in others in Bay Area and to grow with them in becoming more like Jesus. To find out more information, read our CG Leader Profile.
How can I become an CG leader?
If you are interested in becoming a CG leader, you'll first meet with Pastor Allen Smith to discuss your heart and vision for community. You will also attend new leader training as well as quarterly leader gatherings. Fill out our CG Leader Interest form here to get started!