Members of a Small Group led by Suzanne and Austin Pape and Andrew McGannon. Top row, from left: Olivia Reid, Madison McEwen, Andrew McGannon, and Chris Zhang. Bottom row, from left: Suzanne Pape, Austin Pape, and Becca Kouwe.
In May 2025, Chris Zhang decided to recommit to church after his normal rhythms of worship were disrupted by the COVID pandemic and years of joining services online. “I wanted to do the full package,” he said, noting the importance of attending Blacknall on Sunday mornings, joining Sunday School classes, and finding intimate community in a Small Group.
“When I read the Bible by myself or listen to sermons, it’s only one input. But being with a Small Group is an eye-opening experience,” said Chris, who joined a Small Group led by Suzanne and Austin Pape and Andrew McGannon when it began last August. “It helps me feel comfortable opening up and knowing that people accept me, listen, and don’t judge. We realize we have the same struggles and need advice from one another. It gives me the courage to share more about myself.”
If you’re not currently in a small group but are interested in joining, register here and we’ll place you in a group that best meets your needs!
Reflecting on Scripture and sharing about struggles at work or in relationships has deepened Chris’ connection to Blacknall and to God. The patience and care he experiences with six other people are an extension of God’s love and His work among them. “I look forward to getting together every week because I believe this gives me something good beyond Sundays,” he said.
Like Chris, many Blacknall members, attenders, and friends are finding connection in Small Groups that foster deeper relationships within the body of Christ. These weekly gatherings of up to 12 people meet across Durham to study Scripture in community, strengthen friendships, and pray for one another. If you aren’t already part of one, registration is open to join a group.
“I feel so fortunate to be in a space where we feel like we belong, around people who are actively seeking to grow in a shared faith,” said Suzanne Pape. “It’s a huge blessing to have intentional community that’s consistent and genuinely authentic in how we walk alongside one another.”
Like others at Blacknall, the Papes’ Small Group takes time to discuss the previous Sunday’s sermon and other Scripture. But the most lasting impact comes from the relationships and the support the group gives and receives each week.
“Our walk with God is usually not beautiful — it’s often pretty messy — but there’s good in that mess,” she said. “A Small Group is one of the best places to be reminded that we’re human, we’re doing this together, and God is with us through it all.”