So far, Small Groups have been a grassroots movement at St. Ignatius. They have started either directly after Alpha, or organically when a group of friends would start one together.
Within a small group, individuals find themselves growing in relationships with other members, creating the ideal context to experience authentic community and spiritual growth. Currently, there are 10 small groups at St. Ignatius, made up of about 90 people.
Authentic community is central, and in 2023, members accompanied each other through many joys and sorrows. No difficulty —be it fertility struggles or even cancer diagnoses—was met without the prayerful support of their peers. Members have also encouraged each other to actively participate in the life and mission of St. Ignatius. Out of the Small Groups, we’ve seen an increase in service in different ministries such as Alpha, Hospitality and the Connect Team.
St. Willibrord recognizes the impact of Small Groups and has tested out different formats in the hopes of a similar grassroots development in the near future. After all, we grow spiritually when we’re connected relationally