What is Community?

There is so much more to community than simply attending organized gatherings. While we live our lives in response to God for the benefit of others, we are still living in the ordinary moments, the day to day.

That is where Jesus is — in the ordinary moments.

Being near one another does not guarantee community. Christian community is about Jesus being at the center, transforming us together. Acknowledging His presence will radically change how we treat each other, love each other, and serve each other.

So, what are some practical ways we can be in that kind of community?

GET IN A GROUP

Let's do life together! If you are looking for a great way to establish a deeper sense of community in your life, a community group (small group) might be just the fit.

What is a community group? It's you and a friend, you and your spouse and four other couples, your family, or a bunch of co-workers, meeting occasionally or regularly, in your home, over lunch, or even at school. Simply put, it is a gathering of you and your Christian community hinged on a mission of responding to God TOGETHER for the benefit of others!

NEW Groups Launching for Lent

Northland is reading through the Gospel of John during the Lenten season ... and we're making it really EASY to do that TOGETHER. How? To connect with others and engage Christ-centered community in your life, just click to FIND A GROUP and check Community Groups (small groups).

Plus, NEW tools will be made available (in the Worship Guide, online here, and via our Roku channel) to help you easily facilitate or participate in conversation about John within your community group!

Next Steps: FIND A GROUP or FORM A GROUP

PRACTICAL STEPS TO BUILDING COMMUNITY

1. Find or form a group. Whether it be a community (like those mentioned above), affinity, topical or support group, we want to help you do life together. Several open groups are currently listed on our groups and ministries pages and Adult Equipping Director, Barb Olsen, can help you get connected with others or begin your own. Just drop her an email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)!

2. Tell one other person this powerful truth: Jesus is here. Try it and see what happens. In Matthew 18:20, Jesus states that "for where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."

3. Think about the people with whom you are CURRENTLY doing life. Whether it is your family, friends or co-workers, consider how you can be more intentional about responding to God TOGETHER for the benefit of others.

4. Connect with others at Northland and within the local community by serving others, attending a class or by reaching out to those sitting around you during a worship service on-site or online!

5. Share your story. Connection often comes through shared experience and your story matters — someone needs to hear it. Share online, over coffee or within your group.

6. Join us online. Engage your Northland friends and family on Facebook, Twitter or for online worship.