We CONNECT with God and one another in small groups.
To CONNECT at Ankeny First is to be part of a small group centered on Jesus. He is what we have in common. We are transformed in these relationships as we study the Bible and talk about our faith, seeking to understand Jesus better and follow him more closely. Our differences become opportunities to stretch our understanding of God and the world. What we have in common becomes a foundation of trust. These are the connections that clarify the meaning our lives have.
This fall, small groups are doing something BIG!
At Ankeny First, we know the importance of connecting with one another as we grow deeper in faith. The CONNECT step of our method is an essential part of the process that leads to a life of meaning and purpose. If you've ever wondered what a small group is like, come try it out in a large group setting. It will happen on Monday nights at the CLC, September 22 - November 10 at 6:30pm. These nights will function much like a sermon series small group where you'll have a chance to talk through the discussion questions around a table. We'll dive into the scriptures and themes that correspond with the upcoming series, "Becoming Israel." And when "small groups go big" you'll also have the opportunity to meet new people, enjoy some snacks, and learn from the pastors.
Let's all come together for eight weeks, at the same time, in the same place, for the same purpose: to grow closer in relationship to God and one another. Will you join us? Make sure to REGISTER and we'll save you a seat!
Let's all come together for eight weeks, at the same time, in the same place, for the same purpose: to grow closer in relationship to God and one another. Will you join us? Make sure to REGISTER and we'll save you a seat!
Sermon Series Small Groups
Follow along with our current sermons!
We are offering a small group component to our sermon series. Find a listing of all the sermon series groups on the Groups page of our website. These groups are designed so that anyone can join at any time. Listen to the sermon on Sunday and join a group that week at a time and day that fits your schedule. This is a great way to get a sense of what small groups are all about without a long-term commitment.
We are offering a small group component to our sermon series. Find a listing of all the sermon series groups on the Groups page of our website. These groups are designed so that anyone can join at any time. Listen to the sermon on Sunday and join a group that week at a time and day that fits your schedule. This is a great way to get a sense of what small groups are all about without a long-term commitment.
All Open Small Groups
We offer a wide variety of small groups at Ankeny First where you can CONNECT with others! We have small groups for new parents, young adults, empty nesters, couples, single, and MORE! Find one that fits your interests today!
flourish
A Women's Ministry
flourish is a community of women who desire to come together, get rooted in the Word of God, learn from one another, grow stronger in relationship with God, and spread the love of Jesus throughout our communities.
flourish is a community of women who desire to come together, get rooted in the Word of God, learn from one another, grow stronger in relationship with God, and spread the love of Jesus throughout our communities.
Meet Our Connection Coordinators
Maci Andersen
Uptown Connection Coordinator
Maci joined the staff at Ankeny First in June 2025. She is responsible for building relationships with church members, getting individuals plugged into connection opportunities, and developing small groups. Maci has her Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology and Health: Community Public Health from Iowa State University. Go Cyclones! She is married to her husband Garrett, and they have a daughter Olivia. They are also expecting a baby this spring!
Uptown Connection Coordinator
Maci joined the staff at Ankeny First in June 2025. She is responsible for building relationships with church members, getting individuals plugged into connection opportunities, and developing small groups. Maci has her Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology and Health: Community Public Health from Iowa State University. Go Cyclones! She is married to her husband Garrett, and they have a daughter Olivia. They are also expecting a baby this spring!
Amity Wagner
CLC Connection Coordinator
Amity joined the staff at Ankeny First in 2015 as Director of Worship and added Connection Coordinator to her title in 2025. Amity loves helping people find their place in community, providing support for small groups, and directing a ministry for women, flourish. She has a degree in music from Wartburg College. Amity is married to Pastor John Wagner, and they have two children, Gabe and Landry.
CLC Connection Coordinator
Amity joined the staff at Ankeny First in 2015 as Director of Worship and added Connection Coordinator to her title in 2025. Amity loves helping people find their place in community, providing support for small groups, and directing a ministry for women, flourish. She has a degree in music from Wartburg College. Amity is married to Pastor John Wagner, and they have two children, Gabe and Landry.