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:

April 27-June 21

Early September-Mid November

New Life Group Leader Training:

January 25

April 9

September 3 & 10

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?

Why Lead a LifeGroup?

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I qualified to be a LifeGroup Leader?

Leading a LifeGroup 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 LifeGroup 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 LifeGroups 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 LifeGroup Leader?

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

How will Catalyst Church help?

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

How do I get started?

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

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

Special Needs

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

All studies are biblically grounded.

Is Childcare Available?

It depends on the group. Options include:

On-site childcare

No childcare

Kids welcome, but no designated sitter

Contact the group leader for details.

Still Have Questions?

Carlos Alfonso – Groups Director – carlos@catalystchurch.com

Melissa Alford – Groups Coordinator – melissa@catalystchurch.com

Support Groups at Catalyst

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.

Current Support Groups

Dads of Special Needs Kids

For dads parenting children with special needs. Build community, share challenges, and find encouragement with others who understand your journey.

DivorceCare (Men & Women – Separate Groups)

13-week Christ-centered support for those walking through separation or divorce. Led by people who’ve been there, this group offers hope and healing.

GriefShare

13-week group for those grieving the death of a loved one. Find comfort and community as you process loss through a biblical lens.

Living Free

9-week course for overcoming life-controlling struggles (addiction, anger, fear, anxiety, etc.). Offers tools, truth, and a pathway to freedom in Christ.

Marriage Care (Currently Full)

10-week group based on Love & Respect, designed to strengthen marriages through biblical principles, practical tools, and deeper connection with God and each other.

Moms of Special Needs Kids

For moms raising children with special needs. Come find spiritual encouragement, connection, and shared experiences in a supportive environment.

Groups Not Meeting – Winter 2025

(Interested in leading one of these? Click here to learn more.)

Faith & Foster Care

Support for foster families or those considering fostering. Share insights, find encouragement, and walk together through this special calling.

Infertility Support Group

For women navigating the emotional and spiritual journey of infertility. A space to process, connect, and find hope in community.

REBOOT Trauma Recovery

12-week trauma healing course. Helps participants break free from past pain and discover purpose and peace through Christ.

Ready to Sign Up? Register below.

Questions? Contact our Groups Team for more info.

Catalyst Short-Term Groups

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 Group

Kindred (Military Wives) – 7 Weeks | Spring & Fall

A community for military wives (active, reserve, or retired) that offers live teaching, Bible study, and support rooted in Scripture. Experience connection, encouragement, and practical help as you navigate military life. Invite a friend and join us!

Coming This Fall (Registration Opens in August)

Precept Upon Precept

An in-depth, inductive Bible study method that equips you to understand and apply God’s Word for yourself. Perfect for those wanting to dig deeper into Scripture.

Starting Point (New Believers Group)

A 9-week conversational group for those new to faith or curious about God. A safe and welcoming place to explore questions about life, faith, and Jesus.

Financial Peace University

Learn how to budget, eliminate debt, and plan for the future using biblical financial principles. A 9-week course to help you achieve freedom and peace with your finances.