Life Groups
Life Groups at First Assembly
Life Groups are one of the best ways to get connected here at First Assembly. At our church, we believe you can't do life alone; that we're better together. We learn in rows, but we grow in circles. Being able to share life with other people is one of the ways that we can reach our God-given potential.
Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down,
one can help the other up.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)
We base our small group model off of the Early Church.
Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.
Acts 5:42 (NIV)
When do Life Groups Meet?
Life Groups meet weekly during our semesters, several times throughout the year.
Spring 2025 Life Groups
Men in Christ - Men’s Group
When: Monday Nights @ 8p
Where: Café at church
Host: Mark Rowlands
Dates: May 5th - June 23rd
A group of men of all ages and walks of life coming together to seek discipleship and to follow Jesus. Whether you’ve just been called or have been following Jesus for your whole life, you are welcome here!
The Book of Esther: Living with Purpose When God Seems Absent - Women’s Bible Study
When: Monday Nights @ 7p
Where: Youth Room in Building B
Host: Rachel Davis, MaryAnne Galloway, + Heather Orlando
Dates: May 5th - June 23rd
God is always at work in the background, even when he seems silent. This powerful truth is evident in the book of Esther - a story of God’s providence and the preservation of his people during their exile in Persia. In this seven-session series, Rev. Dr. Danielle Brown will help us see that despite moral corruption, national chaos, and the emotional turmoil of the main characters, God will never abandon his people and is positioning us for a purpose bigger than we can imagine.
“For the Health of the Nation” -Wednesday Night Bible Study
When: Wednesday Nights 7pm - 8:15pm
Where: Café at church
Host: Pastor Matt + Pastor Bonnie
Dates: April 30 - June 25th
How does Scripture help us navigate the complex social issues facing the United States? In this eight-session series, a team of pastors and leaders investigate what the Bible says about topics that dominate conversations in our culture: basic human rights, just peace, religious freedom, creation care, justice in issues of race and poverty, and prioritizing life and family. Join us as we explore how we can live out biblical values in tangible, practical ways that honor God and show love to our neighbors.
“Serve the City: Open Door Food Pantry” - Serve Group
When: Daily opportunities Monday - Thursday, 9am - 3:30pm
Where: Open Door Food Pantry in Freehold Borough on Throckmorton Street
Host: Rich Dela Cruz
We want to be the hands and feet of Jesus; to not just talk the talk, but walk the walk! Christ says, “When you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” (Matthew 25:40).
Open Door Food Pantry has existed for over 30 years in Freehold Borough and serves thousands of people in need from Monmouth & Ocean Counties. The food pantry functions more as a grocery store than a meal feeding program. As volunteers, we will be helping to stock shelves, prep items and deliver supplies in two hour shifts. No special skills required, just a heart to serve people!
18-25 Ministry Life Group - 18-25 Ministry
Host: Pastor Paul + Megan Piccolo
When: Thursday Nights
Where: Announced in the GroupMe!
Dates: May 29th - June 26th
May Event - Escape Room on May 23rd
18-25 Ministry exists to fellowship together in this age range as we navigate through college and young adult life.
During these next 6 weeks, we will be discussing and praying on important life topics. Some of these topics are:
Being the Body of Christ,
Apologetics,
Finances,
Relationships,
How to Study the Bible.
We would love to see you there!
Prayer + Fasting - Men’s Group
When: Saturday Mornings 8-9:30a
Where: Café at church
Host: Chris Paulucci + Dan Richmond
Dates: May 3rd - June 7th
Join us on Saturday mornings as we pray for our church, the ministries, the youth, the pastoral staff, the board, each other, and the community - and where we will also be completing a 21 day Devotional and fasting together. We will study the bible by exploring the passages regarding fasting and prayer. We’ll also pray at the altar, as the Holy Spirit leads us, for those who want to participate before each Sunday service.
Walking-Plus Life Group - Active Group
When: Saturday Mornings @ 10a
(weather permitting)
Where: Manasquan Reservoir Environmental Center
Host: Bob + Linda Duarte
Dates: May 3rd - June 28th
Join us for fitness, fellowship, and fun in the great outdoors! We will walk the reservoir trail, which is 5.2 miles. Those who wish to walk a shorter distance can turn around at any mile marker. Wear comfortable walking shoes!
We will have additional hikes during the week on occasion for those of you who wish to join us for a strenuous hike at Hartshorne Woods in Atlantic Highlands (8mi. hike; 3-4 hrs). Hiking boots are mandatory due to rough terrain.
Faith on First: Armor Up! - Active Group
When: Saturdays
Where: TBD
Host: Makyah Dawson + Sara Urspruch
Dates: May 3rd - June 21st
Faith on First is a softball life group where we put God first in every game and every aspect of life. Through fellowship, friendly competition, and prayer, we strengthen our faith while building lasting friendships.
Each week, we’ll also dive into the Armor of God. Learning how to suit up spiritually as we physically, so that we’re equipped to face life with strength, truth, and God’s purpose for us.
This Life Group is open for ages 16+.