Small Discipleship Groups are transformative microcommunities where teens can be authentic, dive deep, and get the support they need on their discipleship journey. The focus isn't on what is known, but who is known and followed (hint: Jesus). D-groups are about encouragement, mentorship, and community while navigating faith and life as a teen.
Small Discipleship Groups (or D-Groups) consist of groups of 5-8 high school students that meet with a Mentor, two or three times a month. It offers the flexibility to meet the needs of our busy teens, allowing each small group to choose the meeting day, time and place* that works best for the group. After an initial four week introduction series, the groups will also have the option to select which topics or themes they want to to learn about and discuss next, but always within the context of our faith and Catholic Doctrine.
The small group concept is a key element in connecting our teens to their faith and church community. It allows the group members to foster a sense of belonging and community, with a positive adult to role model the faith in a relaxed setting. In addition to the small group meetings, there would also be occasional gatherings of all the small groups together for Social Nights, Service Projects, etc.
When do groups start?
Small Groups can start at any time, so if you're interested in joining a Discipleship Group and/or just want more information, contact Lindsey West for details: lindseysjmarello@gmail.com or 916-538-4250 (text okay).
How do I join/get started?
D-Groups meet year-round and can start anytime, but are typically part of the combined Faith Formation Registration process. While we work on getting the 2021-2022 registration up, contact our Youth Ministry Coordinator, Lindsey West (lindseysjmarello@gmail.com or 916-538-4250 [text okay]) to get started.
Can I invite my friends that don't go to St. Joseph Marello?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it, especially as your group is forming! Discipleship is about going out as much as walking the faith journey together. Just connect with your small group leader and/or youth ministry coordinator so they know.
How has Covid-19 affected Small Discipleship Groups?
We are following local guidelines regarding meetings and will be able to still have groups connect in-person when and as is safe to do so or virtually. Our groups are not on hold.
What's the time commitment? I'm really busy.
We ask all teens interested in small discipleship groups to do a 5 week series together before making a longer-term commitment to their group. After the initial 5 weeks, we ask groups to meet at least twice per month. The great thing is that your group (your peers and mentors) can work together to set the meetings that work best for everyone's busy schedules.
I'm a parent, do I need to be involved or do anything?
Yes! Whether your teen shows it or not, you're still the most important person and source of influence in your teen's life. We (the adult leaders and mentors) are here to be partners with you.
So, we urge parents to actively support your high school teen’s faith development, by:
** These activities will require that participating parent(s) -- via the SJM parish office -- complete the Safe Haven - Safe Environment on-line training program and obtain a criminal record clearance (background check) through LiveScan.
+ This will depend on local Covid-19 regulations and guidelines for in-person meetings/gatherings. Groups should follow local and Diocesan guidelines. Contact Lindsey if you are not certain of what current guidelines are.
If you have any other questions or want to talk more about Small Discipleship Groups, contact Lindsey West - lindseysjmarello@gmail.com or 916-538-4250.