Small Group Gatherings
Friendship is key to thriving in college. So, one of our goals at Pres House is for everyone in our community to have meaningful relationships with at least three other people (that’s not an arbitrary number; there’s science behind it). There are a lot of ways to make friends, but we think small group gatherings are one of the best.
Gathering regularly with others makes the huge UW-Madison campus feel smaller and gives room for authentic and long-lasting connections to form. Our small groups are designed to facilitate the kinds of relationships that last. We check in with each other, learn new things, make memories, and — most of all — have fun!
Small groups begin week of September 9
Led by Rev. Nii Addo Abrahams
Location: Pres House patio
PHCC is a no-drop group bike ride open to riders of all skill levels. “No-drop” means we stay together; nobody is “too slow” for the group! Rides start at Pres House and take different routes of various lengths (5 – 30 miles) around the city. Routes are posted each week on Discord.
What to Expect (full document)
- All riders must wear a helmet and bring a water bottle.
- Please arrive ready to ride by 9 am. Once we finish introductions, review ride safety, and fill water bottles, we roll out!
- Bringing supplies to repair flat tires and other minor mechanical issues is highly recommended. There will be someone on the ride who can assist with mechanical issues, but you are responsible for your bike.
- You are welcome to ride a BCycle; however, if your BCycle loses power or breaks down, you will need to contact BCycle for assistance.
Led by EJ and Laura
Location: Pridham Lounge (main level)
Through various activities — Bible study, poetry writing, documentary viewings, and more — we will learn what it means to be a Christian and a steward of the land. In addition to our Monday gatherings, we meet on the first Saturday of each month to put our beliefs into action through excursions like hiking Tewakącąk (Devil’s Lake), practicing land restoration on the Lakeshore Preserve, and helping local climate justice organizations.
Led by Rev. Erica Liu
Location: Pridham Lounge (main level)
“What’s Next?” is a small group for students in their final year as an undergraduate. Meetings cover topics like money, career, transition, and relationships. The transition from undergrad to the next phase of life — whatever it is for you — can be stressful, but What’s Next? is a great opportunity to work through that stress in community while also learning some practical tools along the way to make the transition easier. Join us!
Upcoming dates & topics:
- Monday, November 18 ~ “Anxieties and Excitement”
- Monday, December 2 ~ “Career Anchors”
- Monday, December 9 ~ “Money and Meaning” (tentative)
Led by Allyson & Rev. Manato Jansen
Location: Allison Lounge (2nd floor)
A space where LGBTQ+ folks can join in community in a faith space. We’ll share meals, explore the city, and get to know each other through conversations, book groups, and more!
Led by Rev. Nii Addo Abrahams and Erica Liu
Location: Pridham Lounge (main level)
Bring your own lunch or grab some leftovers from Sunday dinner and join the pastors and other students from Pres House for a conversation about … well, anything! No topic is off limits; the point is to be together. This is a great way to get to know other students at Pres House.
Led by Lauren, Aaliyah, Kyle, and Nathan
Auditions for Music Team are currently paused. If you are interested in joining the music team, please fill out the music team interest form and we will let you know as soon as auditions resume.
Whether you’re a singer, musician, or AV technician, there’s a place for you on the music team for Sunday worship! During rehearsal, we practice for the following Sunday’s selection of music. Our team has featured guitar, bass, organ, cello, violin, saxophone, flute, and more, and we play a wide variety of music: contemporary, classical hymns, Taize, gospel, etc. All UW-Madison students are welcome to join, and there are no religious requirements or expectations for music team members.
Led by Mackenzie and Will
Location: Allison Lounge (2nd floor)
Take a break from your regular schedule, and come join us as we become Rooted in Prayer! We meet once a week to explore and learn about the spiritual discipline of prayer, try different prayer practices, and develop our faith in community with one another. Whether you love prayer or haven’t a clue where to start, we hope you’ll join us and try something new.
Led by Rev. Nii Addo Abrahams
Location: Pridham Lounge (main level)
A gathering specifically for first-year students. We eat, laugh, play, and explore the deep questions of life together in community. Christianity is not a requirement; FC is for anyone who wants to find supportive and consistent friendships in college!
Led by Kelden
Location: Pridham Lounge (main level)
A time for graduate students to connect over fresh coffee and tea.
Led by Aaliyah and Nathan
Location: Pridham Lounge (main level)
Spirit thru Song provides a time for reflection and connection among friends with a shared passion for music. Through Scripture and song, we dive deep into what it means to make music in different contexts and how music both shapes and expresses our spirituality.
Led by Ashley, Ella, and Katie
Location: Allison Lounge (2nd floor)
Each week, we study a different woman from Scripture to learn what she can teach us about God, ourselves, and how to live in community with one another. People of all genders are welcome!
Led by Madison Choi TKD
Location: Allison Lounge (2nd floor)
All classes are from 5:00-6:30 pm
November 5, 14, 19, 26
December 3, 12