equipping people

through small groups

Have you heard of the life changing power of small groups and how we can help to support each other in our lives as followers of Christ? 


Small Groups@ 1st equip you with more tools and support for your faith journey. These groups of 12 people or less center around common interests.  These groups are in addition to various small study groups that come together throughout the year and we hope to add new Small Groups@ 1st as we move forward with this initiative.    


Please look over the small groups that are currently offered, then scroll down to let us know which group interests you.  If you don't see one made for you there's a place to check off that too. 

  • men's lunch group

    This group led by Rev. Nathan Irwin and Justin Hall will meet on Mondays for lunch at restaurants in the Maryville area. 

  • couple's weeknight group

    This group will meet each week (date TBD) at the home of group leaders Leslie & Owen Ragland. The Raglands live near Pearson Springs. 

  • women's card group

    Like to play cards?  Then this group led by Julie Labhart is for you.  Each week the group will meet somewhere, play card games and fellowship together.  This group is limited to 6 people. 

  • online small group

    Sometimes people just can't be in the same place at the same time so it's important to be able to come together even when you're apart physically.  Ralph Jeffers leads this small group that will be meeting via Zoom.  This is a great option for those with health and/or scheduling concerns. 

  • college small group

    1st Student Ministries Director, Chris Jacobs, leads this small group each week at Maryville College.  Once the group comes together, they will pick a day each week to meet. 

  • youth parents small group

    Each Sunday while the youth are meeting for "Close Encounter" this group of parents will be meeting as well.  This group is for parents of children in 6th - 12th grade.  A leader will be determined by the group.  

    Reach out to Rev. Sarah Slack if you have any questions. 

  • family small group

    Got young kids and want a little support as a parent?  This group will appoint leaders during the formation process. 

  • couples small group

    This group made up of couples will choose leaders during the formation process.  

  • Grief support and prayer

    This group led by Ralphine Hood meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month in Room 201.

  • knitting/crocheT/craft group

    Love to knit, crochet or work on other crafts, this group is for you.  Mary Stanley is leading this "crafty" group.  The time and date for the group is to be determined.

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