Small Groups

Ways to connect!

Are you looking for ways to connect with others? Interested in making new acquaintances, or strengthening friendships?

 Check out the options on this page, learn more about Bible study or fellowship groups, and get involved! New groups are always welcome, so reach out if you have ideas for a fun new group. 

Sunday Adult Education

Sundays | 9:45 AM | Charter Hall

January 4 – Pastor Zac Sturm 
That Winsome Character:  A Lutheran Perspective on the Holy Spirit. Join us as Pastor PZ explores this essential and often-mysterious person of our Triune God.
January 11 – Tom Langhofer
Tom will share the challenging experience of losing his daughter to violence and information about their organization, "Do Good for Erin". Their non-profit is a Kansas City–based nonprofit that honors Erin Langhofer’s legacy by supporting women and families affected by domestic violence and substance abuse through housing, donations, scholarships, and grants that help people rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Learn more at www.dogoodforerin.com.
January 18 – Jill Maidhof
Many factors influence the look and feel of Holocaust memorials worldwide. Educator Jill Maidhof will deliver an audiovisual presentation on the sites and the significance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Bible Studies & Prayer Groups

Pastor Zac's Preaching Lab Bible Study

Every Wednesday
Noon | Gathering Place
NOTE: This Bible study will not gather on 12/24/25, 12/31/25, or 01/14/26.
Beginning September 3rd, join Pastor Zac to explore the lectionary readings for each upcoming weekend and discover the "good news." How does a pastor prepare a sermon? How do you "preach" on a text? You can even help him craft a sermon! Join PZ on any Wednesday to see how God’s Word comes alive as sermons take shape.
No need to sign up! Just join us as you are able.

Men’s Tuesday Bible Study

Every Tuesday
11:00 AM | Conference Room A
All are invited to join Jerry Cook for this weekly Bible study on a variety of topics. For more information, don't hesitate to get in touch with Jerry.

Congregation Connections Events

Check back for new congregations connections events starting soon.

If you have suggestions about Congregation Connection events, or suggestions for the Congregation Connections Team, please contact Laura Kamienski.

Women's Bible Study Circles

Hope Circle

NOTE: Hope Circle will not gather in January or February 2026. Next gathering will be in March 2026. 
Meets on the first (or second, in case of a holiday) Monday evening of each month at 7:00 PM in members’ homes. They use the Gather Magazine as their study resource. Contact Lynn Bleck.

Sarah Circle

Meets the 2nd Monday of each month, September-May, 1:00-2:30 PM in the Atonement Conference Room. Contact Shirley Foss.

Mary Circle

Meets the the 2nd Thursday of each month (September-June) 1:00-3:00 PM, and uses the Gather Magazine from the ELCA as their study resource. They meet in the Atonement Sunshine Room at Atonement. Contact Caroline Bromley.

Joy Circle

Meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 PM, in the homes of members, using the Gather Magazine as a study resource. Contact Gerry Barrett.

Fellowship Groups

Novel Ideas
Book Group

 Join other avid readers to discuss the book of the month. The group selects a book to read each month and welcomes others who share their love of books. Everyone is welcome!
Contact Nova Maack if you have questions about this group.
NEXT GATHERING:
January 15, 2026
7:00 PM |Home of Nova Maack
January 2026 book selection: "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou.

XYZ Seniors

Meets monthly (September-June) at various dates/times, either at the Church or offsite. Great fellowship for seniors (or adults of any age). To sign up, use the button below, visit the XYZ table in the lobby, or contact Jade Scarlett.
NEXT GATHERING:
PLEASE NOTE: THIS GROUP DOES NOT GATHER IN JANUARY
February 19, 2026
11:00 AM | Charter Hall
Details for February's event are coming soon.

Why Cook?
Supper Group

  This group meets on the fourth Sunday evening of the month to enjoy dinner and conversation with old friends and new. Everyone is welcome to join. For more information or to RSVP, contact Janette Schumm at (913) 302-5233 or use the button below.
NEXT GATHERING:
PLEASE NOTE: THIS GROUP DOES NOT GATHER IN NOVEMBER OR DECEMBER
January 25 | 5:30 PM
Location: Hereford House
17244 Midland Drive, Shawnee, KS 66217

Crafter's Group

Meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month 10:00 AM - Noon in the Sunshine Room. Bring your project and enjoy time with other crafters! For more information, contact Janice Kindred or Marcia Mack.
NEXT GATHERING:
January 13 | 10:00 AM
Sunshine Room

Men's and Ladies' Breakfasts

Get together for the Men’s Breakfast twice per month, or the Ladies’ Breakfast once per month. Join long-time friends and new ones at First Watch for good food and conversation. For more details and specific dates/locations contact Don Foss at (913) 645-9538 or using the button below.

Atonement Gets Moving - Weekday Edition

Tuesdays | 8:30 AM | Atonement Parking Lot
Join old friends and new ones for fitness and fellowship. We will get together to walk the neighborhood (or inside our church building if the weather is inclement). Contact Sonja Pittrich using the button below or give her a call at (913) 515-3834.