Small Groups are an irreplaceable establishment at The River. This is not to say they are static and unchangeable because the groups and topics and leaders are always changing. The purpose of Small Groups is to provide a comfortable and conducive atmosphere to develop relationships within The River and to introduce non-churched friends and family to The River. In one semester a leader may have a Softball Small Group and the next a Bible Study. The open system invites people to try new ideas and appeal to the needs and desires of The River members as well as members of the community-at-large in Delaware.

A universal condition that everyone shares is to be in relationships; every member of the human race is involved in relationships. The River believes that people should have the chance to be involved in healthy relationships full of brotherly love, compassion, and truth, by the example set by Jesus. Small Groups provide an environment where smaller groups of people have the opportunity to develop closer relationships.

Establishing a family atmosphere, full of love and cooperation, so that everyone can experience this joy is important to the leadership of The River. But like all families, the family of The River is based on relationships. Without the relationships to establish the connection, attending church can seem like a duty or even isolating. In avoiding this trap The River has employed many tactics, but perhaps the most effective are Small Groups. A Bible Study with a handful of other people provides interactive participation in a low-pressure atmosphere; a softball game is a great place to have some fun during the afternoon with other church members and bring along a non-churched friend.

However, relationship building is only one purpose of the Small Groups. The River offers a variety of Small Groups that are Bible Study-based and tender invaluable teachings about how to grow as a person of integrity, strength, and knowledge. Some of these series include: ALPHA, Purpose Driven Life, and more! Even in Small Groups that are not Bible Studies, God is always incorporated, demonstrating that God is not just in the Church, but at Card Nights, Ultimate Frisbee games, and in our individual lives. Even at Fondue Parties God wants to be personally involved in our lives.

Small Groups
Women		Men
General		Youth
Bible Study		Journey