iStudy-Connecting Through an Online Small Groups

Logistical hurdles were no match for the determination of six friends with a goal of participating in the Transformed small group study. Living in different states and time zones, they discovered a unique group home where they could come together at one time in one location—the Internet.

While most of the group had been friends for years, work schedules and distance had prevented them from developing more meaningful friendships with each other. When Pastor Rick introduced the Transformed study back in January and discussed the importance of being in a small group, the six friends decided an online small group would be a practical solution that would allow them to meet at a time and place that was convenient for everyone.  

As the group shared their lives over the Internet, they got excited for what God was going to do in and through their gathering. It was a little bit scary, a bit risky, but absolutely thrilling. Their meetings quickly became more than a Bible study. A community formed while talking about Christ and the stories he’s written, both in the Bible and in their lives. As Camille says, “Faith was something we didn’t really touch on as friends. I guess now it’s like the walls have come down and we’ve allowed Jesus into all aspects of our lives.”

As the bridges of community began to take shape, they began to reveal even more of themselves to each other: dreams, ambitions, and even areas that needed work. The community they formed began to have a powerful, positive, life-changing impact.

“We’re definitely much closer than we were before. Our spiritual lives and our friendship were separate entities. We discussed church and faith here and there, but now, it’s a blended world where we’re friends, church friends and a small group family,” explains Camille.

By leaning into each other, the group learned to stand strong and their faith began to grow. Helen started attending church for the first time. Ryan found the courage to ask probing questions about his faith since he feels comfortable with the people in the group.

Recently Ryan flew to Orange County on a business trip, prompting the group to meet at Saddleback’s Lake Forest Campus in person for the first time. That meeting left that even more excited that the best is yet to come.

“During each week’s study, we are asked to set a three month goal. Doing small group with friends we see and talk to on a daily basis really helps us not just stay accountable, but to cheer each other on and support each other’s goals.”

Experiencing God’s love on their lives both individually and as a community, they’ve learned God is in the business of restoration. That God is right by their sides sharing both the heartaches and the joy of doing life together.

Click here to learn more about Saddleback's small groups.