SMALL GROUPS & CLASSES

Below find a list of small groups, connection opportunities, and classes meeting virtually in our current mode of church life. We have arranged these in three categories: ongoing, time-limited, and coming soon (groups/classes in active formation stage).

Small Groups in Hybrid Church Mode

Most groups are able (and eager) to welcome new participants. A few groups are currently full, but if you see a group you’re interested in, let us know. When an opening comes up, we can let you know; and knowing of your interest also helps us to explore expansion options (like trying to start a new group with a similar focus). Most groups have a set of regular attenders and others who come occasionally.

In addition, you’ll notice some groups are identified as support groups; this means participants do more personal sharing and participation requires commitment to confidentiality and other group norms. If you are interested in one of the support groups, let us know, and we’ll arrange for an interaction with the group facilitator first to explore participation.

Our pastoral team coordinates small groups; for each group a member of the pastoral staff is listed as a contact person. If they don’t facilitate the group directly they will forward your inquiry to the facilitator.

Virtual and Hybrid Small Groups and Classes

While some of our groups meet in-person, many are virtual (Zoom) or have both in-person and virtual options. The description for each class include details of how they meet, plus the codes IP (for In Person), V (Virtual), or VO (in person with Virtual Option) are shown to quickly find a class that fits your attendance preference.

Throughout the year we’ll also offer limited-time classes on topics of interest. Classes will be hosted by Blue Ocean pastors or lay people and feature teaching by a combination of staff and guest speakers. In most cases a virtual option will also be available with a Zoom link sent out for each class (signup links will be included in the class descriptions).

contact our pastors

contact link for Emilycontact link for Caroline

Have a question for one of our pastors? Click on a photo (above) to send a message to either Emily or Caroline. You can also contact our office through our contact page.


Sunday Services

11–11:45 am Sunday Mornings

In-person/Zoom hybrid service
every Sunday at
2309 Packard Street, Ann Arbor
(Social Hall of St. Clare Episcopal Church and Temple Beth Emeth)

more information

GROUP NAME
FACILITATOR
WHEN
DETAILS
Ongoing In-Person, Virtual, and Hybrid Groups
Youth Group  IP
(Middle & Senior High)
Caroline Kittle, El Costanzo, Dave Nelson, Pete Miller In Person Church Sundays,
10:30–11am
Contact Caroline Kittle.
Writers
Support Group  IP
Caroline Kittle In Person after church once or twice a month Sharing original writing for feedback and writing support. Contact Caroline Kittle.
The Next Page  V
Book Group
Emily Swan Weekly, Tuesdays,
10–11am EST
Hosted on Zoom
Contact Emily Swan to get the link.
Tuesday Tea-Time  V Diane Sonda,
Susan King
Every Tuesday
(except 2nd Tuesday of the month),
3–3:30 pm EST
Hosted on Zoom
Conversation with a 3-minute guided meditation to close; contact Diane Sonda to get on the Zoom Invite email list.
Theology on Tap  IP
Book Group
Lisa Ruby Fourth Thursday of the month, evening
In Person
Reading/discussing an eclectic selection of books of theological interest. Contact our staff.
List of past books
Updated: Books for 2023
Parent Allies  VO
Support Group
Jim & Madelyn Cosens & Nancy Broadway Third Thursday of the Month,
7:30–8:30pm EST
In Person with Zoom option

Dinner at 6:30 for local attendees.

Affirming parents supporting each other and LGBTQ friends from unaffirming families. Contact our staff to explore attending.
Men’s
Support Group  V
Paul Sonda Alternating Saturdays,
9:30–10:30am EST
Hosted on Zoom
Offering support for men who want to improve-expand their emotional intelligence. Currently full but exploring expansion options, contact our staff if interested.
Trans Local Connection (TLC)—Zoomie Groups

All our welcome—whether you join us from afar or live in the Ann Arbor area. Contact our staff for more information.

TLC After Church  V Caroline Nelson Second Sunday of the Month after service, 12–1pm ET
Hosted on Zoom
Facilitated discussion, often covering the morning message—local attenders and drop-ins welcome.
TLC Midweek   V Vanessa Lyons Fourth Thursday of the Month, 8–9:30pm ET
Hosted on Zoom
Building connection through fun & games—local attenders and drop-ins welcome.
Coming Soon