Welcome to Community Group Hosting 101!
We’re so glad you’re here.
Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or returning to lead again, thank you for saying “yes” to creating space for others to grow in their faith. At Hood River Alliance, we believe that life transformation happens in community—and community happens best when someone opens their heart and their home. That someone is you.
This starting point is designed to equip and encourage you as a Community Group Host. We’ll be starting our journey together with Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer—a thoughtful and challenging invitation to not just believe in Jesus, but to become like Him through intentional spiritual practices. This book sets the tone for the kind of life-on-life discipleship we want to see flourish in our groups.
In addition to Practicing the Way, your group will also engage with weekly sermon-based discussion questions. These questions are a practical and Spirit-led way to connect the Sunday message with daily life, deepening faith and fostering honest conversation.
Throughout this training, you’ll learn how to:
Facilitate meaningful discussions, not teach content
Create a safe and welcoming environment for all
Encourage spiritual growth through rhythms of prayer, Scripture, and community
Lead with humility, hospitality, and the help of the Holy Spirit
Our hope is that this experience will not only prepare you to lead well but will also deepen your own journey with Jesus as you help others walk with Him.
Let’s get started—together, we’re practicing the way of Jesus in the context of real relationships, right here in our homes and neighborhoods.
Welcome to the team!