THRIVE is a small group experience designed to draw people closer to God and each other.
Everyone is welcome!
Thrive means to grow vigorously or to flourish and our desire at FirstCov is that each one of us would Thrive spiritually. God designed us to follow Jesus in community and while participating in Sunday worship is one of the most significant things we do as believers it is not meant to be everything. Throughout the history of the church and across continents and cultures, in cities and villages, since the day of Pentecost until now believers have gathered in small groups to fellowship, worship, pray, and study Scripture. At FirstCov we have several groups that meet at various times and various places. Some discuss the sermon passage, some do a video teaching series, others do a book study. All are focused on Scripture and all are rooted in community.
We are desiring for more people to get involved in small group settings, and ultimately, we would like to see every adult in a Thrive. And while this may not completely realistic, we continue to shape our conversations around growing our Thrive ministry to be the #1 place for connection, care, mission, and spiritual growth for our people.
THRIVE exists to help us become followers of Jesus who make disciples. If you want a chance to grow deeper in your faith in a relational context we have a great opportunity for you. Please contact our Thrive Coordinator Peter Palma at to learn more about current opportunities and to get connected with a group.
J.O.Y. (JUST OLDER YOUTH)
Are you 60 or older and looking to connect with others in a warm and welcoming environment? Our 60+ group is the perfect place to build friendships, grow in faith, and enjoy fellowship.
We sponsor seasonal gatherings throughout the year such as special speakers, potlucks, an annual picnic, and a harvest dinner in the fall. Come and be part of a group where wisdom, life experience, and faith are celebrated! Let’s walk this journey of life together—laughing, learning, and living for God.
Check out the Messenger for more information! We are always looking for others to join our team and offer suggestions for activities. Contact the church office at 616-453-6346 to be connected to our JOY Ministry leadership team.
FirstCovGR began piloting DNA groups in January 2021. DNA groups are intentional discipleship environments. They are relational, biblical, intentional, and reproducible. Jesus’ own pattern of disciple-making was to be intimately involved with others and allow life to rub against life. By gathering in twos or threes to study the Bible and encourage one another, we most closely follow Jesus’ example with the twelve disciples.
Each DNA group is launched by a facilitator, who is the person who prays 2-3 people into the group, to join in on the journey. Once the group is launched, each participant takes a turn guiding the conversation, as the discipleship occurs through peer relationships. DNA groups commit to meeting for one year, weekly, as much as possible. The goal is multiplication! The folks that are in each group pray 2-3 people into a new group at the end of the year of intentional discipleship, with exponential impact.
The core curriculum for our DNA groups is “Discipleship Essentials” by Greg Ogden. This workbook is a tool designed to help you follow the pattern Jesus drew for us. Consistent relational connection with your DNA group will deepen and strengthen your faith. Go to this link below to let us know you are interested in a DNA Group.
https://bit.ly/DNAgroupsignup
Adult Formation Fall 2024
Sundays
Watering Hole | Room 220 | 9a
The Watering Hole meets Sunday mornings during the first service (9–10:15a). We discuss the sermon from the previous Sunday. We meet every Sunday, with some holiday exceptions and we’d love to have you join us. For more information, reach out to Jim Strobridge (
) or Julie Strobridge (
).
Rooted in Faith | Room 220 | 10:30a
The Rooted in Faith class will continue on Sunday mornings this Fall, led by Mike Poggi and John Anderson. Each week a class member shares their testimony and/or where they are in their current walk with Jesus. Class members share as they are led and comfortable doing so. The leader may ask questions to spur further conversation. Stop in when you are able—each Sunday is a separate topic/discussion. For further information contact Mike Poggi (
).
Griefshare | Room 207/209 | 10:30a
Find help and encouragement after the death of a loved one. At GriefShare, you’ll find understanding, guidance, relief, and a safe place ot navigate the challenges of grief. Come join us on Sundays, starting September 15. Email
to sign up. Materials provided.
Wednesdays
Practicing the Way | Room 207/209 | Wednesdays, 6:30p
The Practicing the Way Course is designed to help get you started on the journey of spiritual formation, help you get unstuck if you’ve stalled out, or just guide you into taking your next step. Ultimately, its goal is to train you to live as an apprentice of Jesus: to be with Jesus, become like him, and do as he did. All adults are welcome to join this class, led by Peter Palma. Wednesdays, Starting October 2. For more information reach out to Peter at
.
Staff
