The Horseshoe Bend Neighborhood Small Group was founded in 2000. The group was formed, or "birthed", with three couples from the Westwood Neighborhood Small Group when that group reached 16 members. With high hopes and full faith in God, members of the new group began meeting at the home of Bob and Margret Kendall in the Horseshoe Bend subdivision and soon became home to various folks seeking the love and grace of God through a small group experience.

Today, the Horseshoe Bend group is comprised primarily of mature couples (50's and 60's); however, it is open to anyone at any time and has, over the years, enjoyed the diversity of those who are single as well as young marrieds with small children. The primary focus of the group is Bible Study, along with a strong emphasis on fellowship and breaking bread together. The group meets in a different home every other Saturday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a time of study, followed by a dinner meal prepared by the hosting couple. The group also enjoys socializing together outside of their regular meetings and has gathered on several occasions to play cards, Pictionary, Balderdash, and other games.

When asked what being a part of the Horseshoe Bend Neighborhood Small Group has meant to him, group founder and leader Bob Kendall replies, "The group has given me an opportunity to share faith with other believers on a deeper level than ever before. As part of sharing that faith, I have spent more time exploring my own relationship with God and with Jesus. In addition, praying together as a group has strengthened my own faith in the power of prayer. I guess you could say - in short - that being part of a small group has brought me face-to-face with my God, strengthening my spiritual walk with Christ and changing my life . . . for the better!"

Although fellowship and sharing a meal together are important functions, the primary focus of the Horseshoe Bend group is Bible Study. Discovering the Bible, the Gospel of Luke, a Purpose Driven Life, and Listening for God are just a few of the many topics the group has explored since forming six years ago. They are currently working through a study of Revelation, moderated by member Art Peterson. The group is also conscious of the need to offer their love and learning to others and, as such, regularly reaches out in service by preparing meals for and spending time with the residents at the Men's Extension Shelter in Marietta.

The Horseshoe Bend Neighborhood Small Group is currently casting around for a new name. Group members now reside in many different areas outside of the Horseshoe Bend subdivision and they would like their moniker to better reflect their focus, faith, and group character, rather than a specific geographic location. However, regardless of what they are called, the Horseshoe Bend group will always be known as a caring, faith-filled small group, where anyone can find the peace and mercy of the Lord and the love and acceptance of devoted brothers and sisters in Christ.