At Tabernacle, our vision is centered around the 3 D's: Discover, Disciple, Deploy. Connect Groups are a vital part of this vision, touching on each of these core principles and fostering a continuous cycle of growth and spiritual development.

1. Discover: Connect Group leaders and members are called to discover lost or unchurched people and invite them into the community. These are not just strangers, but neighbors, coworkers, friends, and even the parents of your children’s friends. The goal is to bring people into a relationship with Jesus and create opportunities for them to experience genuine fellowship and growth.

2. Disciple: Once in the group, individuals are discipled through intentional relationships and study of God's Word. This is where the deeper work of spiritual growth happens—within the context of authentic, Christ-centered relationships. Like Paul taught Timothy, and Timothy taught faithful men who would, in turn, teach others, discipleship in Connect Groups is about equipping people to grow in their faith and become disciple-makers themselves.

3. Deploy: As people are discipled, they are then deployed to go out and begin the cycle again. They start discovering others who need Christ, and the process continues. This never-ending circle is how we can fulfill the Great Commission, one person at a time. As Billy Graham said, "Mass crusades... will never finish the Great Commission; but a one-to-one ministry will."

In Connect Groups, every member needs to be intentional about building three types of relationships: a ‘Paul’ to mentor them, a ‘Barnabas’ to encourage them, and a ‘Timothy’ to pour into them. These relationships are the heartbeat of our Connect Group ministry, as we follow the biblical model of discipleship that can transform not only our church but the world.

By focusing on these 3 D's, Connect Groups at Tabernacle become more than just gatherings—they are the living, breathing mission of the church in action. Through discovering, discipling, and deploying, we believe that the church doesn't grow when groups grow, but rather, the church grows because groups grow. And in this way, we continue to fulfill the call that God has placed on us as His people.

Purpose of Connect Groups
Our Connect Groups exist to deepen relationships with Jesus and one another. The goal is for each person to grow individually and as part of a group. As groups grow, new groups are birthed, helping to reach more people with the love of Christ. Remember, the church grows when groups grow—spiritually and relationally.

Structure of Connect Groups

• Types of Groups: Most of our groups are based geography. We currently have groups based on age (e.g., young couples). We do have one group  that focuses on Christian values and the pursuit of financial freedom. Our vision is to continue to expand groups based on shared interests (pickle-ball, running, etc.). This allows members to connect over common passions while growing in their faith.
• Meeting Times: Off campus groups meet during two seasons each year:
  • February – May
  • September – December
  • These dates align with the church calendar to avoid conflicts and ensure consistent participation.

Launching New Groups
We believe that the growth of Connect Groups is a natural outcome of healthy, thriving communities. As our groups deepen in relationships and spiritual maturity, they become fertile ground for new groups to be birthed. This growth is not about division but multiplication—spreading the life and vitality of one group to create more opportunities for connection and discipleship.

1. Launching in New Areas:

• As we seek to expand the reach of our Connect Groups, we actively identify new geographical areas where groups can be established. This is often done by recognizing members who commute from the same region or identifying communities that are underrepresented in our current group structure.
• How it works: Leaders and members in existing groups are encouraged to pray about new areas where God might be leading them to plant a group. We provide resources and support for those who feel called to start a group in a new location, ensuring that these groups are equipped to grow and thrive.

2. Birthing New Groups from Healthy Ones:

• Healthy Connect Groups are like living organisms—they grow and multiply. When a group reaches a certain level of maturity, it naturally becomes a source for new groups to be birthed.
• Key Principles:
  • Multiplication, Not Division: The process of birthing a new group is not about splitting or fragmenting the existing group. Instead, it's about sending out equipped and passionate members who are ready to start something new, while the original group continues to flourish.
  • Leadership Development: As leaders mentor and disciple members within their group, they intentionally identify and equip future leaders who can take on the responsibility of launching a new group.
  • Celebration, Not Separation: When a new group is birthed, it’s a moment of celebration for the entire church. Both the new and the original group continue to stay connected, supporting and encouraging one another in their growth.

3. The Role of Leadership:

• Leaders play a crucial role in the birthing process. As you see growth and maturity within your group, we encourage you to think about how God might be leading some of your members to start a new group.
• Support from the Church: We are here to provide guidance, resources, and encouragement as you navigate this exciting journey. From initial planning to ongoing support, our goal is to help new groups start strong and stay healthy.

4. Ongoing Growth:

• The cycle of growth and multiplication is continuous. As new groups are launched, they too will eventually reach a point where they can birth even more groups, expanding the impact of Connect Groups across our church and community.

By embracing this mindset of birthing new groups rather than splitting existing ones, we ensure that our Connect Groups remain vibrant, healthy, and focused on the mission of making disciples who make disciples.

We are offering a new group this year with limited space available!  
If you would like to join a group that will focus on Christian values and the pursuit of financial freedom. Whether you're facing financial challenges, seeking insights, practical strategies, or a deeper understanding of God's will in your finances, please sign up below.

These groups help people grow in their faith and build community. Our groups take place throughout the week in different neighborhoods, so use this form to find a group that's right for you. We'd love to have you join us!