Problem with group chat on "Verizon Messages"

[tyfosho]

I recently downloaded "Verizon Messages" because I want to be able to group chat (text) with my friends and family who use iPhones.  When I attempted to send my first group text I got the little clock-face indicator and the message never sent. I restarted the phone and tries other messages, but same thing. Anyone had this problem and was able to resolve it?  Or, does anyone know of another group chat option that provides what "Verizon Messages" provides?  I have looked at "Handcent" and a few others, but they do not have the group chat feature I want.  Thanks.