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Frequently Asked Questions
There are five main categories of questions in this FAQ. To save time click on the category below to get started or scroll through the entire list.
I'm wondering what goes on during Lent...
1. What is Lent?
Small Groups happen in casual, gatherings of six to twelve people in a safe and accepting environment to study scripture and worship together while also supporting one another. Whether you are new to the faith or have been walking with the Lord for years, we encourage everyone to participate in a Lent Small Group. Even if you are already in a small group please set aside the season of Lent to join the rest of the Bel Air family as we focus on a shared experience of Bible study, service, and worship. Jesus is reaching out and transforming the lives of his followers as we fulfill this mission of making Los Angeles the greatest city for Christ in the world. We invite you to experience God with us.
2. What is a Small Group?
It's six to twelve people with a Host (connected to BAPC) and who gather regularly to Study the Word, Worship the Lord, Care for Each Other, Serve their Neighbors, and Relate as Friends.
3. What is the Lent Study?
During the six weeks of Lent, Small Groups take a break from their regular study to join together in a shared experience that integrates the worship services and small groups as they study a curriculum that was created by and for Bel Air Presbyterian Church. It is our goal that during this season, every person who considers Bel Air Presbyterian Church their home, will join a Small Group, and that those who are already in a Small Group will invite a friend or neighbor to join them.
4. What will we do in our Small Group?
We will take some time to get to know each other. After that, it is really up to the group. During this Lent season Small Groups will exchange thoughts in response to each week's teaching help each other grow in our understanding and experience of God, pray for one another and reach out to our neighbors. And we will ask God to uniquely infuse each week with his spiritual power and presence.
5. Is there a special curriculum?
Yes, during Lent you and your Host will have a discussion booklet that will guide your conversation. In addition, there will be a brief video (on DVD) in which the Pastors will provide perspective from the book we are studying. To enrich your private reflections a booklet called the 'Lenten Devotional' will also be provided to help guide you daily through brief passages in the Bible. During the rest of the year, we provide recommended study guides and sermon study questions, but your group may choose to study something different.
6. What are BAPC's Small Group values?
Accountability & Autonomy – groups follow God’s leading while being connected to the larger church;
Authenticity – people feel comfortable being themselves in their Small Group;
City Impact – Small Groups meet in homes or businesses intentionally in order to create more opportunities to impact our neighborhoods;
Excitement – Small Groups are energized by their groups, and eager to share stories, encourage others, and get involved in the church’s vision;
Intergenerational Interaction – children have an active, age-appropriate role in their Small Group;
Launching – people intentionally launch new Small Groups for which the Hosting role is transferred at the end of the season so they can launch another or rejoin their original group. Groups that have met for over a year are encouraged to consider who can launch a new group;
Lay Leadership – volunteers are involved and supported in every level of Small Groups;
Partnership with Other Churches – it will take the whole Church to reach the whole city;
Pervasiveness – we strive to have groups for all neighborhoods, ages, and stages; and
Transformation – life change occurs as we follow Christ together.
I'm wondering if I can participate . . .
7. Why is it important that every single person participate in a Small Group?
Because Jesus was clear that spiritual growth does not come to us on our own but in relationship with others (Ephesians 4:15-16). We need to know and to be known. For those of us who are just exploring faith in Jesus Christ, it's an opportunity to learn more. For those of us who know him and love him, it's an opportunity to draw closer. This is at the heart of our mission. God has called us to this great, large, and sometimes impersonal city. "The fastest and best way to change your life for the better is to join a small group." - Dr. Mark Brewer.
8. What if I am too busy?
You may resist this, but that is the very best reason to participate. Life can get out of hand: the pace, the schedule, the travel, the work, the driving… But this is a new season, a time to put all that in perspective, a time to reconnect with God, what you believe, and people who care… before the busyness wrings you dry. Commit to being connected. You'll be glad you did.
9. How much time will being in a Small Group take?
An hour and a half each week is ideal. Some who are definitely struggling with tight schedules may want to squeeze their meetings into one hour (over lunch or early in the morning, etc.).
10. What if I am already in a Small Group?
Wonderful! Your small group can participate in the Lent study. We will offer you all the support and materials you need. If you choose, you can share the experience and open your group up to others to join you for six to ten weeks.
11. When and where do the Small Groups meet?
Small Groups meet at various times throughout the week. Some are in the evening, some in the mornings, and some during the day. They meet wherever there is a room: in homes, offices, restaurants, and cafés. Take a browse on our "Join a Group" page or at the patio table, and find the right group for you…
12. What if I am not sure I can attend all the group meetings?
You may have to travel. You may have an audition. Don't sweat it. Be committed and your group will certainly understand that something came up and that you will be back as soon as you can.
13. When do Small Groups start meeting?
Ideally, you catch the message in worship on Sunday and meet sometime in the following week.
14. Do you have to be a member of or attendee at Bel Air Presbyterian Church to participate?
No. You just have to sign up and come.
15. Can I invite a friend?
Absolutely. Sign him or her up too. The Lent Study is a great opportunity for you to invite a friend, neighbor, coworker, or family member to join the six-week experience with you (though don't wait for Lent if you have someone in mind during another time of the year). Even those without any faith commitment will find the groups safe and the discussions a useful, personal, and engaging introduction to Scripture.
16. What in the world would I ever do about my children?
We understand that grandma and grandpa aren't always right around the corner (or willing) and babysitters don't take credit cards. But how about finding some other parents and bringing the kids together as well? Make it an early evening and eat some pasta together while you talk. Or early Saturday over pancakes? The friendships are important for them too. Or some parents find it preferable to get together during the day while kids are busy (in the morning or over lunch near work…) or to divide and conquer and participate in two groups that meet at separate times. A few groups even offer child care. Be creative…
17. Can children participate in Small Groups?
Yes. For children of all ages there are communities meeting, each with Small Groups. Contact the Children’s Discipleship Department for information about small groups for your child at 818-788-4210 x163.
18. What if I am a student?
We've got a group for you. Contact our Middle School, High School, or University Discipleship Departments. If you need help call the office at 818-788-4200.
I'm looking for a Small Group...
19. How do I find a Small Group that's best for me?
We have all of our available Small Groups listed online for your perusal. Click ‘JOIN A GROUP' above for instructions on how to find a group that works for you, contact chris.greer@belairpres.org (818-788-4200 x272), or stop by the Small Groups table on Sundays for help.
20. How can I find a group of people with similar interests?
We have men's groups, women's groups, singles, couples, and mixed groups. You might do well finding a group connected to one of our many (and some new) Discipleship Communities (sub-communities within the church). Click 'JOIN A GROUP' above. You can search for a keyword (such as ‘College’ or ‘arts’) and any group that has a description containing that word will come up.
21. Can I form my own group?
Great idea! Pull together a few friends (inside and/or outside the church). Pick a Host. Have that person email smallgroups@belairpres.org with their first name, last name, email, and telephone number. We will ask a few questions to get acquainted, ask him or her to join us for the 45-minute Small Group Host Orientation at the beginning of each Small Group season (Lent, Spring, or Autumn), and create a group on the web with him or her as its Host.
22. Do I have to sign up online?
No. If you are still excited about your new 8-track cassette player, we want to help you. Come to the patio table after the 9 a.m., 11 a.m., and 6 p.m. services at Bel Air Presbyterian Church. We think you'd find it most helpful to look online and see the possibilities yourself, but that is not a necessity. We'll be adding many new Hosts and groups at the beginning of each Small Group Season (Lent, Spring and Autumn) so if you don't see a convenient group immediately be sure to check back. If you have any questions or wish to sign up by contacting our office, you may always email smallgroups@belairpres.org or call us at 818-788-4200.
I'd like to serve through Small Groups...
23. What serving opportunities are there with Small Groups?
Small Groups with Bel Air Pres has many opportunities for people to serve. Among them are Hosts and Coaches. We also have opportunities for writers, directors, editors, motion graphics, production assistants, data entry, and many others. If you are interested in finding out how you can contribute your talents to Many Rooms, click "VOLUNTEER" above.
24. Can I Host a group?
If you have a vital relationship with Jesus Christ, if you are as comfortable listening as talking, and if you know how to help people relax and enjoy each other, you can Host a group. And we are looking for Hosts! We will ask you to come to our Small Group Host Orientation for 45 minutes at the beginning of each Small Group season (Lent, Spring or Autumn). Fill out the leader application here. You will be able to determine where and when your group meets, what demographic you want, how many will be in your group, and who will be in your group.
25. What if I want to Host but I don't have a space big enough?
There's always a coffee shop nearby. But if that won't work, we can help. Some are volunteering to open their homes and/or offices or possibly a participant in your group will open their home. Contact the Small Groups office and we will help you find a solution.
26. How will Hosts be equipped and supported?
Hosts will be oriented and equipped at our Small Group Host Orientation. Also, each Host will be supported by a Coach who offer phone and email support . We also have ongoing support for Small Groups through the Small Groups Blog.
27. If I am already a trained small group Host do I need to come to the Lent Host Orientation?
Yes. This is a unique adventure, and we want you fully equipped to facilitate the complete experience for those who entrust themselves to your group. We want to be able to meet you and for you to meet fellow Small Group Hosts. However, if you are unable to take part in the on-campus orientation, you are welcome to meet with or talk to your Coach. In addition, all the study material will only be available to those that participate in the Host Orientation.
28. I'm not sure I can Host, but can I open my home or office space to a Small Group?
Yes. Most Hosts will have thier group meet in their home, but many may not be able. Please contact the Small Groups office at 818-788-4200 or by email at smallgroups@belairpres.org.
29. Where do I get the materials for our Group?
For Lent, you will receive information about how to pick up the study material at the orientation. During the other times of the year, you and your group may purchase study guides or pick up sermon study questions in the Cafe. Sermon questions are also available online here.
30. How will people find my group?
They are going to visit our web site and search for a group that seems to fit. It will be important that by the time they do you will have already logged in yourself and edited your group page or completed the 'GROUP UPDATE FORM'. It is important to do this as soon as possible, and to update it at the beginning of each Small Group season (Lent, Spring, and Autumn). When you edit the profile, make sure you fill in enough information to well describe whom you welcome, where you will meet and when. If you want your group to enjoy a connection to one of our Discipleship Communities, indicate that. When your group catches someone's eye, they will email you directly. Please check your email frequently and respond quickly!
31. How can I pray for God to meet us powerfully through the Small Groups experience?
We have a prayer team that receives regular prayer updates during key seasons for Small Groups. To receive these updates, email smallgroups@belairpres.org with your name and email address. We also encourage you to build a relationship with your Coach and pray with one another and perhaps with the other Hosts that your Coach coaches. You are also welcome to contact the Coordinator of Small Groups, Jennifer Moore, at the church office at 818-788-4200 or chris.greer@belairpres.org.
Using the church's web site...
32. Who will see information about me on the Church's web site?
Bel Air Presbyterian Church holds your information with the utmost confidentiality. Everyone's information is unlisted and invisible to all except appropriate church leadership (unless the Host decides to list his/her contact information on their group's description).
33. If I'm already in a small group, should we list our group on the web?
Yes. The list of groups online is our only record of Small Groups that are meeting. By listing your group, we will be able to be in touch with you. This also helps us to know how many study guides to order (so we don't waste money and resources) and also allows us to keep everyone in your group updated about changes and announcements for Small Groups.
34. What if we don't want any more members in our group; can we still use the web site?
Absolutely. There are two ways keep others from requesting participation in your group: (1) Set the maximum GROUP size at the current number of members. (If you have twelve members listed in your group and you set the maximum size at twelve, the web site will remove your group from the 'JOIN A GROUP' list) Or (2) you may make your group PRIVATE by clicking the “‘Is this group private?” box on the group edit page. The Host can do either of these by editing the group page. However, at Bel Air Presbyterian Church we stress an 'open chair' model of small groups where there is an open chair at every meeting. God's kingdom is always open to those who wish to join. It is our hope that our small groups would reflect such a community.
35. How do I add a person to my group’s page?
Complete the 'GROUP UPDATE FORM' above or email chris.greer@belairpres.org with the names of your group members. If they aren't in the BAPC database yet, we will need their phone number and email so that we can have them added.
Other...
36. Can I join a group at any time during the year?
It is possible to join a group any time but we do strongly suggest that you find the right group at the beginning of a Small Group Season (Lent, Spring or Autumn).
37. Can I be in two Small Groups?
Sure if you want… You may start a second group to enjoy the experience of Hosting a group and making one available to friends who might not otherwise miss the experience. Or maybe you just can't get enough of hanging out with friends…
38. What happens after Lent?
Around Easter, this Small Group season will be over. And that might be it for you. You will have an opportunity to say good-bye to the group and move on. But for us as a church the Lent Season is just the beginning. We believe strongly that in a church of our size it is important to engage in a small group community to fully experience all the transforming power God wants to unleash in your life. So we invite you to consider joining an ongoing Small Group. Talk with your group. You might find some (or all) in your Small Group who want to continue meeting. If not, use our web site to find an ongoing Small Group, or let us help you start a new one.
39. How can I find a Small Group that plans to keep meeting after the Lent season?
Some Small Groups may indicate that they plan to continue meeting on their GROUP PAGE. If not, ask. Click the EMAIL link, and ask the leader.
40. What if I don't like my group?
Sometimes that happens. Sometimes it is God who wants it to happen. He knows that we don't always grow around people that are just like us, and that sometimes the richest relationships develop with people who are at first annoyingly different. If that's the case, stay. But sometimes, groups develop unhealthy dynamics and need some kind of support or intervention. Speak to your Host if you sense this is the case. You may also wish to speak to your Host's Coach or with us at smallgroups@belairpres.org. The right small group is out there for you. Let us help.
To ask a question that is not listed, please contact Jennifer Moore: jennifer.moore@belairpres.org, 818-788-4200 ext. 150.
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