A photo of the Blacknall “Chillies” small group, which includes people from Hillsborough, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill. It’s co-led by John Rogers, whose smiling face is popping up in the far-back, right corner.

John Rogers has attended Blacknall since July 2020 with his wife, Trina, and their kids, Liza (21), Cate (11), and James (10). He leads a weekly small group in Chapel Hill that welcomes 12 people from Hillsborough, Carrboro, and Chapel Hill to talk about Scripture, reflect on recent sermons, and share in life together. Originally started in 2022 by Jimmy and Sandra Hagood and Rob and Jenny Witman, John and Trina now help lead the group at the home of Quay and Cathy Youngblood.

John reflects below on what it’s meant to be a part of this group in his time at Blacknall.

Having a small group is an important part of our life at Blacknall. Being in Chapel Hill, it can be easy to feel disconnected to Blacknall throughout the week.

Being a part of our small group has taken away some of the awkwardness of trying to connect with people. It gives us space to feel like we can be seen and known.

Our small group has really been a critical piece of our relationship with Blacknall. I relish being at worship and Sunday School, but being a part of a small group offers conversation and connection that runs deep with a group we are invested in and accountable to over a longer period of time.

There's an intimacy we get to create with people that puts some flesh on living out what we do every Sunday. This helps us create relationships that God wants us to have with others. Fellowship leads to a closeness with Him.

My small group at Blacknall has allowed me to voice prayer concerns to others and be vulnerable but also find connection. Last year, my dad died, and members of my small group showed up to the funeral in Raleigh.

*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!*

Our connections feel authentic. There's a sense of community everyone can find in these small groups.

Sometimes I get asked, "Can an introvert be in a small group?" The answer is absolutely "yes!" Maybe you don't want to talk most weeks, or you don't know everyone right away, but it's still important to be known and noticed.

Why join a small group? Have you thought about the gift of being known and loved by others? That's the crux of the gospel and a powerful invitation to these groups. This is a way to be a part of discipleship.

Read more stories of growth and transformation from our small groups: