Home Groups — St Mary’s Church, Bideford
Small, friendly groups meeting midweek to read the Bible, pray and support one another — all in homes around Bideford. New members welcome.
What are Home Groups?
Home Groups are the heartbeat of our church family. They are places where friendships deepen, faith is nurtured, and life is shared honestly. Each group meets in a local home, usually with 6–12 people gathered around a living room or kitchen table.
We open the Bible together, not as experts but as learners, exploring what God’s Word means for everyday life. We take time to pray for one another, our families, and our community, and we celebrate joys and carry burdens together. Conversations are relaxed, laughter is common, and the kettle is never far away.
You don’t need to know the Bible well to join a Home Group — all you need is a willingness to come as you are, listen, and share as much (or as little) as you feel comfortable.
2025/26 focus
This year, our groups are following a rhythm designed to connect Sunday worship with daily life:
- Gentle Bible-overview themes to see the bigger picture of God’s story.
- Seasonal studies for Advent and Lent, helping us prepare and reflect together.
- Practical faith series that roots spiritual growth in everyday choices, work, family, and community life.
Why Home Groups matter
- They provide a smaller setting where it’s easier to ask questions and share openly.
- They are a place to be known and supported, especially when life feels difficult.
- They offer space to grow as disciples, applying faith to the ordinary and the challenging.
- They help weave us together as one church family, spread across the town.
In person, together
All our Home Groups now meet in person — in homes across Bideford and nearby. We believe there is something uniquely life-giving about gathering face-to-face: sharing food, conversation, prayer, and the presence of God together in real community.
Study Themes (2025/26)
- Autumn: Parables of Jesus — listening and living
- Advent: Waiting with Hope
- Spring: Philippians — joy in everyday life
- Lent: The Way of the Cross — prayer & practice
- Summer: Psalms for the Journey
Join a Home Group
Pop your name on the sign‑up sheet in church, or contact the Parish Office with your availability and preferred area.
| Contact | [email/phone] |
|---|---|
| Safeguarding | Leaders follow our Parish Safeguarding Policy. DBS checks where appropriate. |
| Accessibility | We’ll try to match you to a home with suitable access. |
FAQs
I’m new to faith — is that OK?
Absolutely. Home Groups are a safe place to ask questions and learn together.
What if I can’t come every time?
Come when you can — we understand life is busy.
Do I need to host?
No. Some groups meet in the same home; others rotate. Hosting is optional.
We’d love to help you find a Home Group where you can belong and grow.
© St Mary’s Church, Bideford – Home Groups
