Community Groups

Community Groups are groups of 6-10 students who commit to gathering weekly to encourage one another to put into practice the words and the ways of Jesus. 

The focus for spiritual formation this semester is Life With Jesus: reimagining discipleship in an age of uncertainty. Community Groups aim to create weekly rhythms of community by gathering a small group of students into close proximity at a time that works best for them. A commitment to one another fuels these meetings. As does a commitment to participate in the life that Jesus invites each of us into. Students are invited to join other students across campus in a shared practice that Jesus modeled while being encouraged in their community. Through this, we believe that leaders and members will discover and engage with the purpose for which Jesus calls us: renewal for us as individuals and the world around us. 

This invitation creates a set-aside time that draws students, faculty, and staff together as they grow in friendship with each other and God. We believe that these things, done well, will always lead us deeper into the mission individually and together. 

Joining a Community Group

We are excited that you want to take the next step in developing community here at ACU.

The first step is to read our Community Group Covenant, which you can read here. You will be asked to sign this after joining a group.

The second step is to fill out an online form to select which group you are interested in joining.

After that you just have to hold tight and a group leader will contact you with more details after you have been placed with a group!

After being added to a group you will be able to join the group on the ACU Connect App. You will use the app to scan a QR code each meeting for chapel credit.

If you have questions please visit our office in the bottom of the campus center or email us at smallgroupchapels@acu.edu 

Hosting a Community Group

What does a CG leader do?

A community group leader is responsible for hosting and leading a group of 6-10 students each week for 30-40 minutes. You pick the time and location of this meeting. You don’t have to plan any lessons, you just have to care for our students.

Each week we will ask you to make note of any student needs that we may be able meet as an ACU community through asking a series of questions to guide reflection and conversation. 

Do I have to have students for my group?

No, you do not. We will assign students to your group based on their availability and preferences (such as a freshmen only group). If you have students who want to be a part of your group, they will need to indicate this on the sign up form. 

I am a student, can I lead a group?

Yes! We are looking for student leaders, both upper-classmen and graduate students, who are willing to lead younger students. We do ask that you have a faculty/staff or a pastor who will advise and supervise you in this journey. 

Do I have to lead alone?

Not at all! We encourage you to ask a colleague or student who would join you in hosting this space. In the sign-up form (see below) you can name your co-leader. Only one of you needs to fill out the form. 

How will I be supported? 

We will provide you with weekly encouragement and resources that will be made available to you via Canvas once we’ve added you onto the course. On canvas you will find quick messages from others on campus to encourage you as you lead and highlight resources across campus such as the Counseling Center, SOAR, Res Life, etc. Additionally, there will be 5-8 minute videos prepared weekly reflecting on our theme, “Life With Jesus: reimagining what it means to follow Jesus in an age of uncertainty.”  

Of course, our doors are always open to you. If you run into issues or questions arise please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. 

How do I sign up?

All you need to do is fill out this short survey. Thank you! We look forward to embarking on this journey together!