Life Groups consist of 6-12 people meeting together in homes, apartments, coffee shops, restaurants around our city, and online. These Life Groups meet weekly or biweekly to grow closer in relationship with Jesus within the context of a smaller group. We have three sessions a year for our members to engage faithfully in.

Our sessions for 2025 are:

February 2-April 12

April 27-June 21

September 14-November 22

New Life Group Leader Training:

January 25

April 9

September 2 & 8

Do you want to make a difference? We all do. Sometimes we wait for someone else to make the first move. Leading a Life Group simply means you go first. You don’t have to be a theologian or commit every night of the week to be a leader.

You know as much as anybody that it's important to be connected. That's one reason you're part of Catalyst Church.

We know it's hard to connect with others and build lasting friendships. We know that even defining community is tough because being in community is more than showing up for Bible study. It's also sharing food, laughing until it hurts, and doing what you love to do with your favorite people.

What if you could help more people find and enjoy that kind of laughing, caring, and growing community?

If you love having fun, helping people take a next step, and celebrating life-change, leading a Life Group may be just the thing for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I qualified to be a Life Group Leader?

Leading a Life Group is not about knowing all the answers. Once you sign up to lead, we’ll make sure you have everything you need to be successful.

What will my Life Group do?

At Catalyst, LifeGroups form around common interests. Leading is about finding what you want to study or like to do, and inviting people to do it with you. We have Life Groups that exercise together, eat together, ride bikes together, study together, and play ball together. The important word is “together.” What do you enjoy doing?

What does it mean to be the Life Group Leader?

When it comes to conversations or taking next steps, Life Group Leaders go first. Life Group Leaders set the schedule and tone for their Life Group. Life Group Leaders stay in touch with Catalyst so we can help you.

How will Catalyst Church help?

Catalyst Church will help you be the best Life Group Leader you can be. We’ll offer support, resources, training, and encouragement.

How do I get started?

Click “Lead a Life Group” and answer a few questions. We’ll contact you and help you get started.

New Life Group Leader Training:

January 25

April 9

September 2 & 8

What is a Life Group?

A Life Group is a small group of 6–12 people who meet regularly to build authentic relationships, pray, study Scripture, and grow closer to Jesus.

Where Do Life Groups Meet?

Groups meet in homes, coffee shops, restaurants, parks, or online within Jacksonville and surrounding areas.

Meeting Types:

In-Person: Gather physically at a location

Hybrid: Mix of in-person and online participation

Online Only: Meet exclusively via video chat

When Do Life Groups Meet?

Groups meet weekly or bi-weekly. Day and time vary by group.

How Long Are Meetings?

Meetings last 1.5 to 2 hours. Groups follow 8–10 week sessions held three times a year:

Winter: February – April

Spring: April – June

Fall: September – November

What Types of Groups Are Offered?

We offer groups for:

Men

Women

Co-Ed (Married & Single)

Married Couples

Singles

Middle & High School Students (by gender & grade)

What’s the Commitment?

Life Group involvement lasts 8–10 weeks. Consistency is key to growth, but if you need a better fit, let your group leader or staff know.

What If My Group Isn’t the Right Fit?

No problem—just let your leader know. Our Groups Staff will help you find a better match.

What Will We Study?

Groups may:

Use church-provided curriculum based on weekly sermons

Choose an approved third-party study

Use RightNow Media content

Rooted Curriculum

All studies are biblically grounded.

Is Childcare Available?

Contact the Group Leader for details.

Options Include:

On-site childcare

No childcare

Kids welcome, but no designated sitter

Still Have Questions?

Carlos Alfonso – Groups Director – carlos@catalystchurch.com

Melissa Alford – Groups Coordinator – melissa@catalystchurch.com

At Catalyst, our mission is to glorify God by loving all people into a growing relationship with Jesus. Support Groups, a part of our Groups Ministry, walk with people through specific life challenges using Christ-centered, Scripture-based resources. Groups meet during two yearly sessions — Spring (Feb–May) and Fall (Sept–Dec) — and all inquiries remain private.

Interested in leading on of these Groups below? Click here to fill out the form.

DivorceCare-Men & DivorceCare-Women (Separate Groups) // 13 weeks

Most people will tell you that separation and divorce are the most painful and stressful experiences they’ve ever faced. It’s a confusing time when you feel isolated and have lots of questions about issues you’ve never faced before. You don’t have to go through separation or divorce alone. DivorceCare leaders have been through divorce themselves and are examples of the healing and restoration that can occur. They are here to walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences using biblical, Christ-centered support.

GriefShare // 13 weeks

If you are grieving the death of a family member or friend, you don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. GriefShare leaders have experienced significant losses in their lives and are examples of the healing and restoration that can occur. They are here to walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences using biblical, Christ-centered support.

Infertility // Curriculum Based Schedule

Wanting to experience God’s plan for you by having a family is an exciting process and should be celebrated. Some couples, however, face challenges. Not being able to conceive can be confusing, upsetting, saddening, and other emotions that you may have a difficult time identifying. Women who are unable to conceive may even question God’s purpose for themselves and their marriage. You are not alone in feeling this way. We invite you to join our support group for women just like you. If you are looking for answers as well as a shoulder to cry on, be encouraged that there is a group for you. This group is a community of women who are all at different points in their fertility journey coming together as a faith-based support system. Sign up to share your hardships, your questions, and your heart by allowing God to reveal His purpose for you during this emotionally challenging season in your marriage. This Group can help you process the emotions you’re feeling and how to cope with the journey of infertility.

Living Free // 9 weeks

If you’re needing support preventing and overcoming life-controlling issues such as (anger, eating disorders, fear, depression, addictions, anxiety, pornography) we want to provide the tools for you to live free from this captivity. Living Free focuses on biblical truth that confronts our issues, allowing the Spirit of God to search the secret places in our lives. Our leaders offer accountability, prayer, and show Christian love to all group members.

Marriage Care // 10 weeks

Marriage Care is a 10-week group designed to help couples grow closer to one another and to God using the biblical principles of Love and Respect. Rooted in Ephesians 5:33, this course offers practical tools to strengthen connection, navigate conflict, and build a Christ-centered marriage. Whether you’re newly married or decades in, this group will equip you to experience deeper unity with your spouse with God at the center of it all.

Moms of Special Needs Kids // Curriculum Based Schedule

Being a mom can be overwhelming at times, especially if one of your kiddos has a special need. Parents of a child with special needs will all say it can be the most challenging responsibility they have been given - many times above their career, family responsibilities, etc. When you advocate for your child, who advocates for you and your spiritual health? God didn't call us to do life alone, so this group is excited to do life with you! This group is geared toward moms who have kids with special needs/ disabilities/delays.

Trauma REBOOT // 12 Weeks

Trauma REBOOT can help you break free from the pain of your past and find renewed purpose and strength. This faith-based, peer-led course empowers everyday people to overcome trauma and embrace a brighter future. Some people can recall the exact moment their lives changed forever. The horrific accident. The miscarriage. The first time they were hit by someone who was supposed to love them. The moment when their innocence was taken. Others can’t remember a time when their lives weren’t marked by trauma, abuse, or neglect.

Ready to Sign Up? Register below.

Questions? Contact our Groups Team for more info.

Short-Term Groups at Catalyst are part of our mission to glorify God by loving all people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. These groups offer focused, biblical teaching and discussion over 7–9 weeks, and are held during two annual sessions: Spring (Feb–May) and Fall (Sept–Dec).

Our hope is that after completing a Short-Term Group, you’ll take your next step by joining or leading a Life Group.

Current Short-Term Groups

Kindred (Military Wives) // 7 weeks (Spring & Fall)

Kindred is on a mission to love all people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. We do this through God’s love and promises through Bible studies, practical help during deployments, biblically-centered resources, and missional outreach opportunities. If you're looking for a group that can help you navigate the challenges of military life through a biblical lens, Kindred is for you!

Open to all active duty, reserve, and retired military wives from all branches of service. We will have live teaching and then a time to discuss in a Life Group environment. Our hope is that you will join a Life Group or launch your own following your group experience with Kindred. Don't miss out on this time of fellowship and fun! Sign up and invite a friend!

🔗 Register

Precept Upon Precept // Curriculum Based Schedule (Spring & Fall)

Precept Upon Precept is a Precept Inductive Bible Study which features the Precept Inductive Bible Study Method. “Inductive” means we use the Bible as the primary source of study to learn about God and what the Bible teaches. Precept studies are designed to equip you with inductive study tools so you can discover truth for yourself.

🔗 Register

Rooted // 10 weeks (Spring & Fall)

Rooted is a 10-week discipleship experience designed to help you connect with God, the church, and your purpose. Through daily readings, group discussions, and experiences like prayer and serving, you’ll begin to see God at work in your life in new ways. Rooted is a great first step into community at Catalyst, whether you’re new to faith or looking for a fresh start. Many Rooted groups continue on as Life Groups after the 10 weeks, giving you the opportunity to build lasting relationships and keep growing in your faith journey. Don’t miss this chance to take a step toward deeper connection with God and others!

🔗 Register