The One Anothering Small Group was founded in February 1999 by Carolyn and Al Baumgartner. Carolyn - who has a heart for meeting and greeting newcomers at Macland - simply approached the newest members of the church at that time and asked if they would like to form and be a part of a small group. The answer was "yes", and the group has been meeting and growing together ever since. Today, the One Anothering group enjoys a membership of 15 individuals and is comprised primarily of mature couples, but also has one happily single person among the rank and file. Ages in the group range from 50's to 80's but, regardless of what the calendar reflects, every member is young at heart and spry of spirit.

The primary focus of the One Anothering group is Bible Study and spiritual growth. Over the years, the group has engaged in a number of different biblical studies, read and discussed various books by Christian authors, reviewed video series dealing with issues of faith and belief, and worked through The Purpose Driven Life. During the summer months, the group suspends its regular Bible study meetings and enjoys wonderful times of fellowship, including getting together for picnics, games, crafts, dinners, and trips to the theater.

While the group's main thrust is Bible study, there is also a strong emphasis on service, and this faith community's heart for outreach is evident in a number of different ways. First, they founded and continue to participate in the Silver Comet Trail ministry, which distributes water and fruit to the many walkers, runners, bikers, and roller-bladers on the Trail. They also volunteer regularly to prepare and serve meals at the Men's Extension Shelter in Marietta and also support Cobb Street Ministries and Barium Springs Home for Children. In addition, members of the group purchase and donate gifts each Christmas as part of Macland's "Angel Tree" ministry and, most recently, group members have been volunteering as mentors at Compton Elementary School. Finally, all members of the One Anothering group have, at one time or another, been involved in the leadership of Macland, either serving on committees or filling the role of elder or deacon.

When asked what being a part of the One Anothering Small Group has meant to them, members of the group reply, "There is a powerful commitment within our group to support our church and its mission. We are united on this front, and there is a joint effort to accomplish projects and achieve goals for Christ. Our group also provides a sense of belonging and support, and fosters close, trusting friendships. Indeed, we have been blessed over and over again with good friends because we've been a part of this group."

In 2002, Macland sought to expand its small group ministry so that everyone might have the chance to experience the joys of being part of a small faith community. As such, the original One Anothering group birthed a second small group, One Anothering II, which later became the Parenting 101 Small Group. Carolyn Baumgartner commented on this issue, "Because there was such an emphasis on creating small groups, we birthed another group. I know this is an important process in the life cycle of all small groups, but it was a very painful experience for us, because we dearly loved our young families. In fact, I still have the stretch marks on my soul!"

With its focus on Bible study, fellowship, and service, the One Anothering group epitomizes what every small group should strive to be - a community of faith and love designed to meet the needs of others and do the will of Christ in the world.