DISCIPLESHIP BANDS

A discipleship band is a group of 3-5 men or women who meet weekly to grow in the way of Jesus. Through honest conversation and prayer, they help one another practice love—toward God, each other, and the world around them.

Meeting Guide

Opening Prayer

One person opens:

Wake up sleeper and rise from the dead!

Others respond:

And Christ will shine on you!

Father, we pray you would strengthen us with power through your Spirit in our inner being, so Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith. And we pray that we, being rooted and established in love, may have power—together with all the saints—to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is thelove of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that we may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. In Jesus’ name, amen.

The 5 Questions

Each person takes 15–20 minutes to share around the prompts below.

How is it with your soul?
What are your struggles and successes?
How might the Word and Spirit be speaking in your life?
Do you have any sin to confess?
Is there anything you desire to keep secret?
After each person shares, another member prays for them
in response to what they’ve shared.

Closing Prayer

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

FAQs

How is a Discipleship Band different from a small group?

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Unlike traditional small groups, Discipleship Bands are intentionally small and same-gender to foster trust, openness, and depth. They center on listening, prayer, and personal reflection rather than curriculum or discussion topics. The primary “content” is each person’s lived experience with God.

Who are Discipleship Bands for?

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Bands are for men and women who desire deeper spiritual growth and meaningful accountability within a same-gender community. You don’t need to be a spiritual expert—just willing to show up consistently and engage honestly at your own pace.

What happens during a typical meeting?

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Each meeting includes prayer and a guided rhythm of reflection using a small set of shared questions. Each person has uninterrupted time to share, followed by prayer from the group. Meetings are same-gender, confidential, and marked by grace and compassion.

How do I join or start a Discipleship Band at Sonoma Collective?

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You can express interest by reaching out to our team or completing this form. We’ll follow up with the format and simple steps to getting started or connect you with an existing band.