Small Groups at VU!

One way to easily get involved in a causal and more intimate setting is in small groups. Every fall Vanguard University offers small groups, both an opportunity to volunteer as a leader or just to sign up as an attendee. These groups usually each have a unique theme or series determined by their leader.

Small groups are also a good way for students with busy schedules to still deepen their connection with faith. These groups are more flexible with time schedules and meet based off of the attendee’s schedule! At the end of each semester, students who attended small groups also receive some chapel credit. At the end of each academic year, students get the opportunity to earn another credit by completing a survey about their small group. So, these groups are also good for a ‘safety net’ of chapel credit!

Plus, these groups also allow the small group leaders a chance to show leadership and help others in their faith journey. Cassandra Sappington, Senior Psychology major, was a small group leader for the last academic year, 2021-2022, and she stated,

“I enjoyed being able to facilitate open and honest conversations about our religion and culture.”

Sappington lead a small group where the focus was on ‘beginner’ knowledge and growth in Christianity. Her goal was to give people who didn’t grow up in faith a space to ask questions and grow in their confidence.

Lastly, when asked about her thoughts on small group after leading one Sappington replied, “Small groups leads to new friendships and growth in all of our lives.”