How do I become a follower of Jesus?

We are so pleased you are asking that question! Learn about how to become a follower of Jesus here.

How do I register a group?

Just fill in our contact form with your details and we will add it to our database so that when others enquire about a group in their area we can point them to yours.

How do I find a group in my area?

Just get in touch through our contact form and we will see if we can direct you to a group near you that may be part of Lighting Fires or another house church movement (we know some really great house church ministries)

Where would I start my group? 

Anywhere you like but we would recommend you start in your home and when the group becomes too big, launch another group from it rather than get a building. This is key, don’t repeat the past, launch another group out of the group you already have.

What format would the group be in?

It's up to you but we would suggest that the primary focus is worship, prayer and breaking bread together as the early church did in Acts 2:42. You could start with a meal (not just tea and biscuits) and then begin to worship and pray as the Holy Spirit leads. Somebody may bring a song, another a word, a testimony, a scripture. Be free and listen to what God says - 1 Corinthians 14.26

How many people would I need to start a group? 

If it's just two of you to start with don't worry! Just start by yourselves and let God add to your number. We recommend aiming for around 7-12 people before you would need to start an additional group in another home. 

What if I don't play an instrument?

Your voice is an instrument, start there and add other instruments later or sing along to recorded worship music. 

What do you believe?

We are Christians and we believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ. See our full statement of faith here.

You can also read about our values here.

What denomination or group do you belong to?

None. We are non-denominational and don't belong to any overseeing group or ministry. We are accountable to people we know and trust, who are mature in the faith and speak into our lives. Ultimately, as his church, we are accountable to Jesus.

Who are you accountable to?

We are ultimately accountable to Jesus but we do have a number of mature Christians within the faith that speak into our lives and bring guidance and correction if necessary. They are friends we have built a relationship of trust with over a number of years.

Can I go to more than one group?

Yes absolutely! We believe it will be normal for individuals to attend more than one group although we would encourage being consistent so that you can build relationships and do life together.

Would I have to leave my church if I started a group?

No. It is not the vision of Lighting Fires to encourage people to leave their regular place of worship although we cannot control the personal decisions you make.

Are online groups included?

Although there is nothing wrong with online groups, they shouldn’t become a substitute for meeting face-to-face. We want to encourage the body of Christ to meet face to face, ideally in homes. The Bible clearly tells us not to forsake the gathering together of ourselves, that is how we grow and receive encouragement - Hebrews 10:25

Can I call my group a Lighting Fires group?

You are welcome to call it a Lighting Fires group if you wish just as long as you share and practice our vision and values. This ensures that Lighting Fires stays unified as a movement and that we are all moving in the same direction. You are responsible for your group.

Should I allow children in the group?

We would encourage you to allow children in the group, the church is a family after all and children are often used powerfully by God. When the disciples tried to usher the children away Jesus told them to let them come to him and also said that the kingdom of heaven belonged to them - Matthew 19:14

*For safe guarding reasons, make sure they are supervised at all times and not left alone with adults who are not their parents. You will be held responsible for the safety of all children in your meetings.

Do I need to be a qualified Minister/Pastor to start a group?

No. As believers in Jesus Christ we are all priests unto God 1 Peter 2:9. Although we can and should learn much from mature Christians and those who have studied the Bible (pastors, preachers, teachers etc…) we do not require them to seek God for ourselves or to connect with God. Jesus has opened the way for us by the shedding of his blood on the cross and his subsequent resurrection.

1 Timothy 2:5-6, Hebrews 4:16

What do I do if there isn’t a group meeting in my area?

This is the perfect opportunity for you to start one! I know that might sound scary but it doesn’t have to be. The vision of Lighting Fires is thousands of small groups across the UK and beyond. That can only be achieved by those who are willing to start one and look to multiply into more groups. You only need one other person to start a group (Matthew 18:20) and by doing so you will be fulfilling the vision. Why not start one today? We will support and equip you in any way we can. Register here.

How do I donate to Lighting Fires?

We are so blessed by any donations we receive towards the ministry of Lighting Fires. They help us continue with the vision to birth multiple small groups and see the kingdom of God advanced in our nation. Please donate here.