EPIKOS Spring 2020 Small Group Catalog

SPRING 2020
SMALL GROUP
CATALOG
groups start meeting
the week of
FEBRUARY 16
SIGN UP NOW
at groups.epikos.org
or with a Connect Card

EPIKOS FAMILY—
As we begin to journey through 2020 together, my
prayer is that we continue to trust in God and His
promises. Through the study of Genesis in our Number
the Stars series, we were brought alongside Abraham
and asked to look forward to the fulfillment of God’s
promise. The promise that through Abraham’s line the
world would be blessed.
As we depart from Genesis and step into Galatians,
it’s important to keep asking:
How does God fulfill His promise?
Galatians will answer this exact question. We live on
the other side of the cross from Abraham. As a result,
we are the very ones whom God promised to Abraham
would be blessed. Through Jesus’ death on the cross
and His resurrection from the dead, our salvation has
been secured. Let’s come together and witness this
transformation firsthand through being an active part of
a small group this season!
The Spring Small Group Season launches the week
of February 16 (registration is open February 9–23).
Let’s pray together that God will shape us individually
and corporately into His image through our study in
Galatians as we learn to live in the power of His promise.
I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I
who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life
I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Song
of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Adam Mollica
Small Groups Pastor
— Galatians 2:20
2 | groups.epikos.org

FREQUENTLY
ASKED
QUESTIONS
What is a small group?
Small groups at Epikos are 12–16
people that meet weekly for 90
minutes to build community, pray
together, and discuss the Sunday
sermon passage. Small groups meet
in neighborhoods throughout the
Milwaukee area.
How can I find the best small
group that’s right for me?
You can look through group
descriptions in this catalog or
online. Groups are organized by
group type, day of the week,
and location. There are women’s,
men’s, couple’s, and general groups
(which are open to anyone).
What happens after I sign up?
When you sign up, the leader of
your group will contact you with
the address of the group’s meeting
place, the start date and time, and
any other details.
When will my small group meet?
Small groups meet for 90 minutes
once a week. This small group
season will start the week of
February 16 and run for 10–12 weeks.
Is there a cost to join a
small group?
There is no cost. It will be helpful to
purchase a study guide in order to
prepare for your weekly discussions.
Do I need to bring anything
with me?
To get the most out of your small
group experience, you’ll want to
bring a small group study guide and
a Bible. Study guides are available
at all campuses. They cost $5.
SIGN UP ONLINE OR IN SERVICE
ONLINE at groups.epikos.org. Groups listed in this catalog and the
supplement are also online. All group registrations close February 23.
IN SERVICE with an orange Connect Card. Fill out your first and last name,
email address, and phone number on the front. On the back, write the name
of your desired small group on the line that says “Sign me up for,” then drop
in the offering bucket.
groups.epikos.org | 3

GENERAL GROUPS
open for anyone to join
SUNDAY
Anna and Travis Sternhagen | 7:00 PM | Riverwest
Anna and I love hosting people in our home and we invite you to join us as we
discuss scripture, pray, and walk along one another through all life has for us! We
hope our home will continue to be a place where friendships grow, a safe place
for people to bring questions, and a place where we worship God.
MONDAY
Doug and Kathy Grabenstetter | 7:00 PM | Fox Point
Fun small group awaits new members! Meet new people, learn more about God’s
Word, enjoy weekly snacks, and laugh often. Doug and Kathy welcome you.
Matthew and Alissa Turner | 7:00 PM | Bay View
Matthew and Alissa have been married for 11 years, no children. Matthew teaches
Social Studies and is the athletic director at Milwaukee Riverside HS and Alissa
teaches Music at St. Eugene in Fox Point. The Turners enjoy baseball, camping,
baseball, making music, baseball and are total foodies, and baseball. They are
looking forward to digging into God’s word and deepening their faith with their
small group.
TUESDAY
Amanda and Daniel Peterson | 6:30 PM | Grafton
We are a newly married couple in our late 20’s who are excited to build a fun
community of men and women while studying God’s word!
WEDNESDAY
Jake and Hilary Mlsna | 6:00 PM | West Allis
We have been married 13 years, have two kids (7 and 4) and have been living
in the Milwaukee area for the past 6 months. We value seeing people come
together to study God’s Word, build relationships, and have fun.
Edward and Carlene Wade | 6:30 PM | Greenfield
Our group connects with each other in great fellowship. We love getting to
know one another and then we have lively discussions centered around the text
of God’s word. We make sure to do something fun each semester like a chili
night birthday celebration or a get together with another group. Our focus is
always on spiritual growth and strong bonds.
4 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome

GENERAL GROUPS
open for anyone to join
WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)
Ronaldo and Kelli Ghenov | 6:30 PM | East Side
We are firmly convinced that God sanctifies us through the local church and
that this transformation happens best in community.
Scott and Jeni Jex | 6:30 PM | Butler
If you are looking for a relaxed group that seeks to know God better and to
encourage each other throughout life’s daily challenges, we invite you to join
our small group. We have children ages 2–13 that enjoy making new friends,
so families with children are welcome, as well as those in any stage of life that
don’t mind a house full of kids!
Steven and Kristin Kluender | 6:30 PM | Shorewood
We would be thrilled and honored if you join us in our humble Village of
Shorewood condo every Wednesday evening for fellowship, healthy snacks,
and growing in God’s Word together. We are pet free empty-nester’s who
desire to get to know our Epikos brothers and sisters of all ages and from all
walks of life in a deeper way both personally and spiritually. Hopefully, we can
have some fun along the journey. We look forward to meeting you!
Kari and Jonathan Stenitzer & Matt and Laura Treat
7:00 PM | Glendale
We are a group made up of young families and professionals that enjoy
studying God’s word, praying alongside one another, and growing together
by building a strong Christian community. We enjoy leading and using group
members’ questions to strengthen the depth of our discussions and we always
enjoy the snacks our group provides!
Vance and Debbie Strader & Mark and Kathy Miller
7:00 PM | Mequon
We’re looking forward to another fantastic small group of men and women
with diverse ages and backgrounds that want to get to know each other
better, learn from each other and grow closer to God together. Vance and
Debbie will be hosting and Vance will co-lead with Mark. Can’t wait to
welcome you into the group!
Kids Welcome
groups.epikos.org | 5

GENERAL GROUPS
open for anyone to join
THURSDAY
Alex and Kate (Adkins) LoCicero | 6:30 PM | West Milwaukee
Small groups have been a blessing to us and we would love to be a blessing
to you. Alex and I (Kate) are a mixed aged couple with different past religious
experiences. Our goal is to create an atmosphere of learning and companionship
within God’s beautiful community that is focused on God’s Word. We strive to
make every walk of life feel welcome in our home and with our group. We have
two children, 16 and almost 11 who from time to time will be at the house when
we are meeting. Children are welcome, but we do not have child care. We also
have a wonderful dog. Blessings to All, Alex and Kate.
DJ and Amber Royer & Ryan and Monica Miller | 6:30 PM | Waukesha
Our goal is to have a diverse group from which we can all grow, learn, and
encourage one another in our relationship with Jesus Christ as we live life from
differing places and perspectives. We welcome parents to bring their kids if they
would like.
Jon and Meg Elliott & Tim and Karen Dougherty | 6:30 PM | Franklin
We have been married for 9 years and have 4 year old boy. Tim & Karen: We
have been married for 24 years and have 2 adult children. We are helping colead
the group with Jon & Meg. Our group is great for couples with kids, and for
anyone who enjoys having open conversations about the struggles and blessings
of life. Our group members rotate weekly between watching the kids while the
adults have Bible study upstairs.
6 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome

MEN’S GROUPS
MONDAY
David LaCasse | 8:00 PM | West Allis
Hey guys, I’m Dave. I’m a husband and a dad, and I love talking sports, video
games, or just hanging out. This group is open to all men: college guys, dads,
married, single, retired... wherever you’re at in life, take a load off & join me to dig
into the Word, share our stories, and argue over our favorite teams.
TUESDAY
Steve Van Slett | 7:30 PM | Tosa
I am in my late thirties and am married with two kids (and two cats). I enjoy
board games, sci-fi and fantasy novels and movies, conspiracy theories, and
hiking. I want this group to be able to support each other and help each other
understand God’s word better but we’ll have fun as well.
Byron Matthews | 7:00 PM | West Allis
Men who are looking to grow their faith alongside other men. Married or single,
dating or still waiting, come talk about your walk and be challenged by where
the journey is taking you.
Josh Eide | 7:15 PM | Tosa
A group of men locking arms and in the trenches fighting our battles together.
So excited to see what God’s plans are for this group! I’m an IT professional who
spends my free time traveling, playing soccer or golf, and attending sporting events.
WEDNESDAY
Dave Cartwright | 7:00 PM | East Side
In the past few seasons, I’ve really stepped up my ice-breaker game and its total.
If you are in your 20’s or 30’s, are looking to have some fun and meaningful
conversation, we’d love to have you come join us!
Dan Conway | 7:30 PM | West Allis
I’m in my thirties and am married with three kids. i’m a big sports fan and enjoy
live music and doing anything outside. Looking forward to having a relaxed
group with guys from all walks of life looking to grow together and dive into the
sermons each week.
THURSDAY
Brian Fredericks | 6:30 PM | West Allis
This is a men’s group primarily for first responders. I am excited to dig in to the
Word together, and see where God takes us.
Kids Welcome
groups.epikos.org | 7

WOMEN’S GROUPS
SUNDAY
Shelby Link | 6:00 PM | Washington Heights
I enjoy getting to know people and trying new things. I enjoy hearing peoples
stories (the good the bad and the ugly, I’ve lived it all). I love having open, real
conversations about God and growing in our knowledge and love for God.
MONDAY
Anya Covington | 6:30 PM | Riverwest
Empowerment. Encouragement. Edification. With good food, good women
and a focus on sharpening each other in God’s word is what you can expect.
Personally, I’m a lover of Christ, 6’2, melanin popping, lover of books, popcorn
(all food really) and people. Should be a life-changing time.
TUESDAY
Sami Stelpflug | 6:30 AM | East Side
Hi, I’m Sami! My prayer for this group would be to grow in knowledge and
understanding of the Word, learn to study scripture deeply and develop true
community together! Can’t wait!
Emma Sromek | 9:30 AM | Whitefish Bay
Hi, my name is Emma and I am a mom of a two and a half year old and an
almost 1 year old. This small group is for new moms who are looking to build
community with other new moms at Epikos. Bring yourself and your baby(ies)
and together we can learn more about God and mom life.
Sarah Sufferling & Taylor Fisher | 6:00 PM | Tosa/West Allis
Sarah is a high school Spanish teacher and loves traveling, reading, and latin
dancing. Taylor is a nurse who’s married with no kids and loves working out,
fishing, and playing with her german shepherd. We would absolutely love for you
to join us as we study the Word and grow in community! We will meet at Taylor’s
house and Sarah’s apartment on alternating weeks.
Jackie Tetzloff & Emi Vanderburgh | 7:00 PM | Greenfield
Jackie and Emi are young professionals who share a love of dogs. We are
meeting at Jackie’s, and she has a pup named Lucy. Our hope is to build
friendships and grow in faith with fellow women.
8 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome

WOMEN’S GROUPS
WEDNESDAY
Liz Wilson | 6:30 AM | West Allis
I am looking forward to having a small group of women passionate about
pursuing God’s word together and a supportive community of believers to walk
through life with!
Becky Wetzel | 6:30 PM | Milwaukee
My name is Becky, I finally got into small groups about a year ago after my
husband told me many times it would be a good step. It was a fantastic step. I
want to open my home because it’s important to live real faith through bad and
good, rich and poor; I now know more than a handful of ladies from Epikos with
all of us being from different walks of life. Seeing the blessings God brings us as
we meet together, learning from Him is time well invested.
Jaci Nguyen | 6:30 PM | Tosa
Hi, I’m a preschool teacher in my twenties. Come join our community, but
beware of the cold basement. No worries though, our love for each other keeps
us warm! We are fun-loving group of women who love to chat and share life
together.
Shelly Adams | 6:30 PM | West Allis
I’ve been attending Epikos since the opening day of West Allis in June of 2012
and this is my 7th year leading this group. Join us as we grow deeper in our faith
and relationships with Jesus and each other.
Taylor Nordhausen | 6:30 PM | Milwaukee
Hello! My name is Taylor and I am a teacher in Milwaukee. I would love to get
to know you and your journey with Christ. I have lots of snacks, and will bake
cookies!
Alisha Urban | 6:45 PM | Milwaukee
Hi! If you’re wanting to grow in depth and maturity in your relationship with God
and other women through the Bible and prayer, I would love to have you be a
part of my group! I am in my mid-20s and work as a speech therapist. I have
been a part of Epikos East Side for two years and have loved seeing God work
in my life and in the lives of other people! We will be meeting at Stone Creek
(Factory) in hopes of it being somewhat of a crossroads between campuses! We
welcome women of all ages and faith stages!
Kids Welcome
groups.epikos.org | 9

WOMEN’S GROUPS
WEDNESDAY (CONTINUED)
Christina Chang | 7:00 PM | Milwaukee
I have one more week before I enter my 30’s and it’s about to get crazy! I love
learning and growing with other women and hearing their stories about what
the Lord is doing in their life. I also love adventuring outdoors and all things
food! I hope this group can walk along side you in your journey with Jesus!
Laura Kraft | 7:00 PM | Washington Heights
Hi there! We’re a group of ladies of all ages who weekly spend time in Scripture
together and really get to know what is happening in one another’s’ lives. When
I’m not around Epikos, you’ll probably find me trying out a new restaurant, doing
really anything creative and enjoying all that Milwaukee has to offer. If you’re
looking for an authentic community of women, encouraging each other as we
grow with God and having lots of fun too, join us!
Kristin Greenwald | 8:00 PM | Oak Creek
I am a 31 year old woman who is married with 2 little kids. I love diving into the
word and being surrounded by other woman who can encourage each other.
THURSDAY
Holly Carroll | 7:00 AM | West Allis
I’ve been in and out of small groups for a while now and lead a pretty busy
lifestyle, but I value the significance small groups has on our lives. As a time to
reflect on God and share with other believers in the community, I find it valuable
to have this time in the morning. So if you are an early bird or your evening
schedule tends to be more busy, this could be the small group for you! I’m so
excited to be leading again!
Sharon Zak | 9:30 AM | East Side
This women’s small group is for young women, seasoned women, single women,
married women. Together we’ll grow in God’s word as we lean into Jesus and
embrace each other.
Muriel Eden-Paul | 6:00 PM | Tosa
I am a mother of 4 adult children and Nona to 3 grandchildren but my small
group of young mothers and their children has become family. We have infants,
toddlers, and 4–7 year olds and provide babysitting for the older children while
the younger ones stay with us. We welcome married or single moms, please join
us. We do have a dog in the house but she is put away for small group.
10 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome

WOMEN’S GROUPS
THURSDAY (CONTINUED)
Carrie Tatum | 6:30 PM | West Allis
I am a 42 year old wife and mom who is excited to continue in our current
sermon series. We are welcoming women of all ages to a small group that
provides a safe environment to share, build relationships, and dive into God’s
word each week.
Rita Bertolas | 6:30 PM | East Side
My husband and I are long-time East Siders who have been going to Epikos for
over 10 years. This is my 6th year leading a women’s group. If you’re looking for
a comfortable, safe place to share and learn about God’s love and grace with a
group of women of all ages and stages of life, we’d love to have you join us!
Sarah Wahl | 6:30 PM | West Allis
Just a girl wanting to study the Bible with some girls.
Casey Schimek | 7:00 PM | Tosa
I’m in my mid-30s, married for 7 years, and a working mom of two littles. This is
my second year leading through Epikos and love it! I welcome women from all
ages and stages in your faith journey.
Sarah Jongetjes | 7:00 PM | Greenfield/Milwaukee
We are in our 20s and 30s. We love studying the Word and praying for one
another in small group. We also spend a lot of time together outside of group
exploring Milwaukee.
Teri Sarnowski | 7:00 PM | West Allis
I am a daughter, mother, grandma, widow and employee who loves Jesus,
camping, crochet, reading and more... I am excited to see how God moves in our
lives this season as we gather together to build relationships, study His word and
grow. I reside with my cat, 2 dogs and 2 guinea pigs.
Kids Welcome
groups.epikos.org | 11

COUPLE’S GROUPS
for those who are married or seriously dating — please sign up individually
SUNDAY
Nate and Karissa Considine | 3:30 PM | Greendale
We are excited to lead a couples small group again this year! We have an
eighteen month old daughter and a Siberian husky that keep us very busy. We
will be offering childcare to allow those with children some focus time during
small group and our husky will not be out during group time.
MONDAY
John and Mary Maguire | 6:30 PM | East Side
A couples group covering all stages of life meeting on the lower East Side.
Aaron and Stephanie Hopefl | 7:00 PM | Milwaukee (Polonia)
We hope to gather with other couples of all ages for prayer, community, and
study of God’s word. We have been married for two years, and currently live in
the Polonia neighborhood just west of Bay View along with our dog and cat,
Juno and Mulligan.
Daniel Lopez-Tan and Susan Tolonen | 7:00 PM | East Tosa
Scientific brain and artistic brain couple who have a cute doodle mix dog. We
are seeking an authentic relationship with Jesus and others! We are in our early
fifties but still feel like we are in our thirties. So all ages are welcome. We look
forward to exploring God’s word, laughing, maybe some tears and providing an
environment where we all can grow and learn together.
Tom and Diane Abshire & Phil and Kathy Heston
7:00 PM | Whitefish Bay
We are a mixed group of 15–18 people ranging in age from late teens to midsixties.
We love studying the word of God and fellowshipping together to see
God change lives.
Brian and Lindsey Hirt | 7:30 PM | Tosa
We are Brian and Lindsey Hirt. We live on the south end of Wauwatosa have
three children ages 5, 4, and 2. We’re excited to lead a small group this year! We
are hoping to structure our group so that it’s conducive for couples with young
kids to be a part of it (although it’s not necessary to have kids). We’re planning
to do an every-other-week rotation of meeting as couples without kids one
week and meeting just the guys or ladies the next week to limit the childcare
burden. We look forward to learning and growing in our faith this spring!
12 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome

COUPLE’S GROUPS
for those who are married or seriously dating — please sign up individually
TUESDAY
Andrew and Jasmine Murphy | 7:30 PM | Milwaukee
Our group is for couples in any stage of life looking to grow their faith and
create lasting biblical friendships.
WEDNESDAY
Seth and Rachel Drury | 6:30 PM | Whitefish Bay
We are in our early 30’s, are married with no children and a dog. We have been
going to Epikos for four years and have been a part of small groups for three.
We enjoy spending time outside in God’s creation whether it be riding our bikes
or hiking with our dog! We are excited to jump into the Word and develop a
strong fellowship with other couples as we all continue our walk with God!
Adam and Devyn Mollica | 7:00 PM | Hartland
We are in our late-20s and have been married for almost six years. We hope
for our small group to be a place of encouragement and challenge as we follow
Jesus together, not only as couples but also as individual women and men. See
you soon!
Chris and Jaclyn Peters | 7:00 PM | Tosa
We are a recently married couple in our early 30s who like drinking coffee, doing
anything outdoors, and hanging out outside of group. We are excited to see
what God has in store this year!
THURSDAY
Jonathan and Katie Carnehl | 6:30 PM | Glendale
A group of families doing life together. We all have children and they play
elsewhere in the house while we meet. We spend time together in fellowship,
study, and prayer.
Dustin and Sharon Rodarmel | 7:00 PM | East Tosa
We are a married couple in our thirties who love the outdoors, adventure, and
building community with others. We are passionate about growing and sharing
in our walk with Jesus. We are looking forward to diving into the word, growing
relationships, and doing fun things as a group!
Kids Welcome
groups.epikos.org | 13

COUPLE’S GROUPS
for those who are married or seriously dating — please sign up individually
THURSDAY (CONTINUED)
Grant and Rachel Goeman | 7:00 PM | Muskego
Hello! We are the Goeman’s and this will be our fourth year leading a group in
Muskego. Our group is couples with young children who are welcome to come
to group depending on your childcare situation. Our group is a bit chaotic,
but we love to be doing life together. Our hope for group is to challenge and
encourage one another!
Ryan and Alex French | 7:00 PM | West Allis
Ryan and I are in our early 30’s, have been married 12 years and have four kids.
We have lived in West Allis since 2014 and have been going to Epikos since the
week we moved here. We love getting to know couples and hosting small group
from our home. Our 12 and 11 year old daughters are both Red Cross certified
and love playing with the kids upstairs in the playroom while group is happening.
We are a very casual, fun group. We hope this group is a great fit for you!
FRIDAY
Matthew and Catherine Heger | 6:30 PM | Brookfield
We are Catherine and Matt Heger. We look forward to fellowship with our group
members and growing in our faith and relationship with God.
Disclaimer: If you have any known allergies
(nuts, pets, etc.) please contact the small
group leader of the group you are interested in.
14 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome

EPIKOS ACROSS MILWAUKEE
Metro Milwaukee is a true picture of what biblical
diversity looks like. The mission of Epikos is to make
more and better disciples and one key component of
that is to embrace our diversity through Small Groups.
Epikos small groups meet every week across 400+
square miles of the Milwaukee area. When small
groups gather in homes and coffee shops, neighbors
begin to notice and ask questions. For some, this
might be their first encounter with the community,
joy, and peace that the light of Christ brings.
To that end, whether you’ve been involved in
Small Groups at Epikos for years or are just
getting started, would you pray over the
below map and consider if God might
be inviting you to lead or host a group
in an area where there aren’t groups
currently meeting?
We want to lift the name
of Jesus and see people
enter the kingdom of
God through a personal
relationship and the
best way to do this is
to be present in our
communities!
groups.epikos.org | 15

BECOMING
BETTER
DISCIPLES
TOGETHER
16 | groups.epikos.org Kids Welcome