September Ministry Spotlight: Community Groups
Community Groups at Mount Hope exist in which members share life in order that they might become more like Christ. Strong community is valued at Mount Hope and Community Groups play a key role in helping the church reach its potential as a body of believers. These groups of 10-12 adults meet every other week in a home to laugh, learn, and live life together.

Pastor Brian Krogh, who oversees the Community Groups at Mount Hope, recently took some time to talk more about this core ministry at Mount Hope.

Q: Why is there such an emphasis on Community Groups at Mount Hope?
A: Out of all the things we do at MHCC this is where we really believe we will have the greatest impact on our discipleship. The call is to make disciples and we want to be committed to that first.

Q: How long have Community Groups been an active part of Mount Hope, and what got you involved with the ministry?
A: My first experience with small groups at MHCC was a few years ago when groups met at MHCC for six week intensive studies. We started Community Groups the way they are now run when I became full-time on staff back in the fall of 2007.

Q: What is the vision for Community Groups? A: The vision is this is where discipleship takes place – living in community, holding each other accountable, and getting to know each other on a deeper level. We have Sundays and Wednesdays and other ministries and activities at Mount Hope, but our Community Groups is where we hope Bible Study, fellowship and caring for one another will take place.

Q: Who are the key leaders?
A: This year I would like to see a leadership team develop for Community Groups. The people I would love to see part of this team is anyone who is committed to being involved in community groups as participants and leaders. The hope is this group of folks will work together and make things accessible to Community Groups.

Q: What are some goals for Community Groups this year?
A: This year a goal of ours is to get to the point where we have Community Groups for new people to attend in January too. This way they don’t have to wait until September to get plugged in. As people come throughout the course of the year we want to get them involved.

Q: What can be one of the most challenging aspects of the Community Groups?
A: Community Groups can be a big commitment but once you get there, you walk through the lesson, you gather in fellowship - you leave knowing it was the best thing to do. I’ve been surprised at how long it takes to get to the point where people feel like they can really be open and honest about their struggles in life, too.

Q: What excites you about Community Groups?
A: One of the best things that has been a result of these groups is we really feel like it has strengthened the pastoral care at Mount Hope. People have gone through hard times and the community groups come alongside to help them out. People have opened up and talked about their struggles and asked for prayer.

Q: What events and things do you guys have going on throughout the year?
A: The Table is the most significant event during the year, and that is coming up on Friday, Sept. 23 at 7:00 p.m. We’ve decided on a curriculum The Christian Atheist by Craig Rochelle. If you haven’t registered there’s still time; people can register online or on Sunday, Sept. 4, 11, or 18 before or after the services.

To learn more about Community Groups at Mount Hope, or if you are interested in leading a group or being on the leadership team, please contact Pastor Brian at bkrogh@mounthope.org