COHORT FAQs
how big are Cohorts?
Our groups vary in size, ranging from 10-20 people. They commonly spend their time getting to know one another, having big conversations in group discussions, family-meals, social outings, prayer and very importantly: serving tangible needs in the city together.
where do Cohorts they meet?
Cohorts typically meet in homes, apartments, and backyards. While the group name typically aligns with the neighborhood where the group meets, don’t be alarmed if it is meeting elsewhere. They often start in one neighborhood and move as people move. Ask us first if walkability/bike-ability are important factors for you and we will find the nearest group at present.
how often do Cohorts meet?
Groups typically meet once a week for about two hours. In a given years we have three independent “sessions” lasting about 3 months each. We take a month break in-between those sessions so that people can easily transition in to and out of groups. A cohort is not meant to be a lifelong commitment but a 3-month commitment. Feel free to try new groups as life changes or the desire to meet new people grows.
what do Cohorts study?
Groups have freedom to study different topics, but most often they will align the discussion with the sermon series to help us all apply the Word to our lives. Occasionally groups will study a book, focus on particular thematic scripture topics, or use their time in other creative ways. If you are looking for something in particular we can help direct you to a group based on area of study.
do Cohorts do anything in addition to study and discussions?
Yes! Yes! Yes! Cohorts are not your classic bible study. They are closer to what you might call “missional communities.” We gather together for specific purposes to accomplish specific ends. Cohorts are our primary engine to drive tangible service to our city. Each group will pick an area to serve and do that together during a session. You will also find evenings of fellowship over a meal, social outings, and nights of prayer. Also, while most groups are co-ed, cohorts will often take specific nights to break off into men and women only times so that gender-nuanced prayer, conversation, and ministry can take place.
do you have “life-stage” groups?
Yes and no. We tend to think of our groups as a coalition of people who live close to one another first. We believe the gospel compels us to be a diverse group of people in all ways, as we find Christ glorifying unity in Jesus alone. This of course has its positives and some drawbacks. It provides us with the opportunity to learn from people with different experiences and perspectives on life and ranging levels of spiritual maturity and experience with Jesus. This of course might limit the depth of conversations on any one particular life phase (ex: deep dive into parenting woes), so we encourage you to use the connections you make while in a mixed cohort to pursue one-one one or intimate relationships outside of the group. This way you get the best of both worlds. Having said all that, you will likely find that each group does have its own unique flavor and may or may not have the diversity we just mentioned. If you are looking for something in particular, we’d love to help you find a great fit! Just mention those desires when we reach out to you after signing up for cohorts.
how do i pick a cohort?
Having said all that, you will likely find that each group does have its own unique flavor and may or may not have the diversity we just mentioned. If you are looking for something in particular, we’d love to help you find a great fit! Just mention those desires when we reach out to you after signing up for cohorts. And remember, there is nothing wring with trying a few groups before choosing a landing place.
how do i Become a Cohort Leader?
All our cohort leaders have been through the family membership process. If you are interested in becoming a cohort leader you should start by filling out this leader application and one of the pastors will follow up. We will give you the training and support you need to grow toward that step.
how do I JOIN a cOHORT?
Sign up online [click here] or email Ty-Lene @ tylene@siderischurch.com
CADRE FAQs
how big are CADRES?
Gender-specific groups of 4 people. This provides more air time and opportunities for people to share what is characterizing their relationship with Jesus Christ in a more intimate level.
where do CADREs meet?
Parks, coffee shops, breweries, restaurants, etc. Basically anywhere our in the city!
how often do CADREs meet?
Once a week for 7 weeks. Timing is more flexible as this depends on your group! Group decides when to meet. This might be the same each week, or vary depending on cadres needs.
what do CADRES LOOK LIKE?
We like to break it down to 4 main points of what being in a cadre looks like:
Relational: space to practice the interdependency of church: “I need you and you need me.” Sharing, Encouragement, Prayer
Biblical: space to unpack takeaways, questions, action steps from sermons. Plus, look ahead to next week’s sermon text.
Renewal: space where God’s restorative and redemptive activity is pursued; growth through vulnerability
Missional: space as we bring God-talk into our city and encourage one another in our personal gospel-exalting endeavors.
how do I JOIN a cADRE?
Sign up online [click here] or email Ty-Lene @ tylene@siderischurch.com