EXPLORING FAITH AND THE OUTDOORS in central oregon

Common Ground refers to a space where individuals of different backgrounds, beliefs, and circumstances find commonality and relationship. And in our context, we see the Common Ground of the outdoors as providing a beautiful environment for conversations of life and faith to take place and individuals who see the world differently to learn from each other and grow together.

Common Ground doesn't’ have a physical location that we meet at continuously—maybe in the future! We volunteer at different outdoors events throughout Central Oregon and have groups that meet regularly in Bend, Oregon. We also rent spaces for gatherings.

We’ve got so many ways for you to get involved; it just depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to meet with a small group of people to talk about life, questions of faith, the teachings of Jesus, or find support from others walking a similar path, check out our LifeGroups or even contact us about starting your own.

If you want to give back to the outdoor community through Common Ground and join in on our monthly service opportunities, click here.

If you’re looking to connect with people who love similar outdoor pursuits as you, shoot us a message and we’ll connect you to meet-ups.

If you’re wanting to find a place to gather with people interested in conversations about Jesus and an opportunity to worship through sharing, teaching, and music, check out our monthly Gathers event.

If you want to attend, volunteer at, or help plan one of our multi-day retreats, head here.

The mission of Common Ground is to grow a movement of Jesus followers who reflect His heart in the outdoor community of Central Oregon.

For the outdoor community of Central Oregon to experience abundant life through supportive community, meaningful service, rhythms of rest & adventure, and thoughtful worship.

Being positioned at the intersection of conversations about faith and people who love the outdoors of Central Oregon, Common Ground is different in that we seek to offer something meaningful to everyone. We’re not really a “church” by traditional standards. But we’re not just an outdoor-pursuits or activity club either. Our focus, through following the ethic of Jesus, is on fostering deep relationships and exploring faith in and with our local outdoor community. Be it through service projects, outdoor retreats, small group get-togethers, and gatherings for worship, sharing, and discussing the person of Jesus, we believe all people can find something meaningful and life-giving in the Common Ground community.

Common Ground is supported by the Oregon Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventists and other wonderful donors around the USA.

On This Rock is a climbing event that we host next to Smith Rock in Terrebonne, Oregon. The event focuses on increasing accessibility, experiencing belonging, and considering Jesus in the climbing space. We have close to 300 attendees every year. Learn more here.