Small Groups
*Contact the church office or check the events/blog webpage for more information
Glendale has many small groups that one can join and participate to connect with others with similar interests, join in Bible Studies, fellowship, and/or learning a skill.
There are many ways to get involved at Glendale UMC. If you are looking more for community outreach, check out our community connections page. If you would like to volunteer during Sunday, check out the worship volunteer page.
Small Groups - Day of the Week
Click on a day of the week below to learn more about the groups available on that day.
Sundays
Adult Sunday School
Sundays from 11:15 am to 12:15 pm
Lounge, church lower level
Join us Sundays after worship for lively discussions that connect timeless biblical wisdom with today's headlines. Our Adult Sunday School class uses "Wired Word" curriculum to explore how scripture speaks directly to the news events shaping our world right now.
What makes our class special:
Current events meet ancient wisdom in eye-opening ways
Thoughtful discussions among engaged learners who aren't afraid to dig deep
Materials sent ahead via email so you can come prepared (or just show up and jump in!)
Videos and interactive elements keep things fresh and engaging
A welcoming group that's grown to over a dozen regular participants
Each week stands alone with a new topic, so jump in anytime that works for you
Whether you're wrestling with how to respond to challenging news, seeking biblical perspective on current issues, or simply want to connect with others on a faith journey, you'll find our discussions both challenging and encouraging. We believe the Bible isn't just a historical document, it's a living guide for navigating today's complex world.
Come discover how God's word offers wisdom for the real-world issues we're all navigating. New faces always welcome.
Sunday/Funday Youth Night
2nd & 4th Sundays at 5:30 pm
Grades 6th-12th + College
Fellowship Hall
Join us for an evening of fun and fellowship with other youth! This is a place to have fun, relax, and connect in the middle of your crazy-busy life.
What to expect?
Delicious food (because we know you’re always hungry!)
Fun games, crafts, and activities designed just for teens
Hang out with friends and make new ones
Zero stress, maximum fun
Why join? This isn’t just another program - it’s your space to:
Take a break from the pressure
Connect with caring adults who get it
Spend time with friends who understand your world
Actually have fun (revolutionary, we know!)
You belong here. Come as you are - stress, tired, excited, or anywhere in between.
As Glendale grows, we hope that we will have enough youth, young adults and adult volunteers to break this into two groups with more condensed age ranges, but until then, we will join 6th grade-college together.
Mondays
Glendale Geezers
1st & 3rd Mondays at 8:00 am
Perkins, 17387 Kenyon Ave., Lakeville, MN
Start your week with a boost of camaraderie and insightful conversation. Geezers is a casual meet-up at Perkins where we delve into discussions about life and faith while enjoying a hearty breakfast. It’s a great way to connect with fellow men from the church and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Monday Morning Coffee Time
Mondays at 10:00 AM
Dunn Bros., 5801 Egan Dr, Savage, MN
Looking for a warm, welcoming place to unwind, make new connections, and enjoy great company? Join us at our coffee group where we meet Monday at the Dunn Bros closest to the church!
What started as a way to support a local business has blossomed into a vibrant social gathering where everyone is welcome. Whether you’re a longtime member of the community or new to the area, our coffee group is the perfect opportunity to relax, catch up with friends, and build new relationships.
Imagine sipping your favorite coffee or tea while engaging in lively conversation and sharing a few laughs. It’s more than just a meet-up — it’s a chance to connect with others in a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Come for the coffee, stay for the camaraderie! Join us when you can, and there’s no need to commit to every week. All are welcome - bring a friend or come solo. We’d love to see you there!
Young Adult Group
Bible Study: Mondays at 7 PM
Fun Activities: Once a month
Home of leader, Savage
Ready to connect with others navigating the same life stage? Join us for authentic community where faith meets real life—whether you're figuring out your career, dating, adulting, or just trying to make sense of it all.
What we're about:
Weekly Bible Study: Mondays at 7 PM at Annalise's apartment for food, deep conversations, and discovering how ancient wisdom applies to modern dilemmas
Monthly Adventures: Fun activities that build friendships beyond the Bible—think game nights, hiking, local events, or whatever sounds good to the group
Real Talk: No pretending you have it all figured out- we're all learning together
Starting Point: We're diving into 1 John- a short but powerful book about love, truth, and what it really means to follow Jesus in everyday life.
Who's This For? Anyone in their 20s or early 30s- basically that wild life stage after high school but before you're chasing two toddlers around. Single, dating, engaged, newlywed, career-starting, career-changing, grad student, or just trying to adult successfully- you belong here.
Come as you are. Leave with friends who get it. All are welcome!
Tuesdays
Knitting & Crocheting Group
Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 am
Home of leader, Savage
Join our knit and crochet group where we create prayer shawls filled with love and prayers for those in need. These shawls are available for anyone in the congregation to someone who could use some extra comfort. When we have an abundance of shawls, we turn our attention to other projects, such as knitting/crocheting hats for kids in need.
We volunteer our time and do not charge for the shawls/hats, but if you’d like to contribute, donations for purchasing yarn are always appreciated.
Whether you’re a seasoned knitter/crocheter or just starting out, we’d love for you to join us in this meaningful work!
Tuesday Book Club
3rd Tuesday of the month at 1:00 pm
Location rotates
Each meeting is hosted by a different member who is responsible for leading the discussion and providing snacks and beverage. New members are warmly welcomed to attend many times before being expected to host. Discussion questions can often be found online, or you can use general book club prompts.
We usually start with some casual conversations while waiting for everyone to arrive, followed by an hour of book discussion (depending on the book). Afterward, we enjoy treats together. Most meetings last around two hours and includes lots of laughter and great conversation.
2025-2026 Reading List
September: The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
October: Wish You Well by David Baldacci
November: The Bucket List by Rachel Hanna
December: Hello Beautiful by Ann Nappoitano
January: All the Broken Places by John Boyne
February: Remarkable Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
March: God of the Woods by Liz Moore
April: The All Girls Filling Station’s Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg
May: The Tell by Amy Griffin
Brown Bag Supper
2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6:00 pm
Fellowship Hall
Unwind after a busy week with our Brown Bag Supper for men of all ages. Bring your own dinner and join us in the Fellowship Hall for an evening of fellowship and discussion. It’s a relaxed setting where we explore where faith meets everyday life over a simple meal.
These gatherings are perfect for building new friendships and deepening your faith. Whether you can make it to one or both, we look forward to sharing good times and great conversations with you.
Wednesdays
Women's Bible Study
Wednesdays from 9:30-11:00 am
Fellowship Hall
Are you looking for a place to deepen your faith and connect with others? Join our Wednesday morning Bible Study — a welcoming group of women who gather to explore the Bible, seasonal studies during Advent and Lent, and other faith-related topics chosen by the group.
We meet weekly from September to May, and during the summer, we gather once a month to stay connected.
This is more than just a study group: it’s a sisterhood where you can make new friends while growing in your faith. Whether you’re new to the group or a returning member, we’d love for you to join us on this journey!
THRIVE - Children, Youth, & Family Ministry
Wednesdays at 5:30 pm
September - May
There will be a light supper followed by education time for kids of all ages during the school year.
We’re dedicated to creating a space where kids and teens can truly belong, have fun, and grow in their faith. For children, we’ll sing, learn about Jesus, make new friends, and strengthen existing ones. For teens, we offer a supportive environment where you can connect with peers and deepen your faith. Come be part of our vibrant community!
Glendale Choir
Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 pm
September-May
Church Sanctuary
Love to sing? We’re a multigenerational choir, and we’d love to have you join us. No auditions, no pressure - just good people making good music together.
What makes our choir special:
All ages welcome—from teenagers to grandparents, everyone has a place
Relaxed, joyful atmosphere where we support each other in creating beautiful worship
We sing approximately twice per month during worship during the school year. No worries if you can’t make every Sunday we sing. Life is busy!
Camaraderie that extends beyond rehearsal—this group genuinely enjoys each other’s company
Variety of music styles that keep things fresh and fun
We’re a group of people who discovered that singing together is one of life’s simple joys. The friendships are real, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the music is rewarding without being stressful.
Want to check us out? Just show up during rehearsal. No need to commit—come see if we’re your kind of people!
Thursdays
Mahjong Group
Thursdays at 2:00 pm
Home of leader, Savage
Are you looking for a fun and engaging way to sharpen your mind and connect with friends? Come join our Mahjongg group! We gather every Thursday for an exciting game of skill, strategy, and—most importantly—lots of laughter!
Mahjong is a captivating game played with times, similar to the Western card game rummy but with its own unique twists. It combines skill, strategy, and a bit of luck, making each game a fresh and thrilling experience!
But don’t be fooled by the strategy, our group’s focus is on having a great time! Expect plenty of laughs, friendly competition, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, you’ll find camaraderie and enjoyment in every game!
Feel free to bring a friend and come ready for a good time. We’d love to see you there!
Glendale Golfers
Thursdays at 5:30 pm during Golfing season
Cleary Lake Golf Course
All skill levels welcome. Please come join us for a game of golf!
Fridays/Saturdays
Glendale Social Gathering
Up to One Saturday/month at 6:30 pm
As planned throughout the year
Home of leader, Savage
This is a relaxed, come-as-you-are event where we can connect and enjoy each other's company. Come enjoy a beverage (non-alcoholic and alcoholic will be available) and some charcuterie. Feel free to bring yourself, a friend, and/or food/beverage to share.
There will be supervision and crafts/entertainment provided free for the kids so families can come too. All are welcome to come join in good conversations and enjoy some good food!
We're excited to create a warm, inclusive space where everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy great food and even better company.
Other Information
New Small Group Idea?
Do you have an idea for a new group? We’d love to add more. Please contact the church office to explore options.
*Please note that if a group states in its description/name that it is for Men/Women, all are welcome no matter gender identity, however, please note that the gender listed is the typical composition of that particular group. It is our intention and desire to make sure ALL feel welcome and to know that there is a place for everyone at Glendale - regardless of gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, physical and mental ability, level of education, family structure, and other background. We hope to add more groups in the future that are not gender based.
God loves all and so does Glendale UMC!