GROWTH GROUP CORE PRACTICES
OUR BASIC PURPOSE: Growth groups exist to promote the development of significant Christian relationships centered around the study of God’s Word.
(see Hebrews 10:24-25; Romans 8:29).
Social Connection: Each week, we may visit informally for a few minutes as we meet. Our gatherings will be alcohol-free for the purpose of welcoming all.
Sharing: Each week, we will take time to share what is happening in our lives. At first this sharing will include some planned “sharing questions.” After the first few weeks, it will become more informal and personal as our group feels safer and more comfortable.
Study: Each week we’ll study a portion of God’s Word that relates to the previous weekend’s sermon. Our goal is to learn how to apply live out our Christianity in our day-to-day experiences and relationships.
Support: Each week, we’ll learn how to take care of one another as Christ commanded (see John 15:9-13). This care will take many forms, such as praying, listening, meeting needs, and encouraging and even challenging one another as needed.
GUIDELINES AND CORE PRACTICES:
Dates and Time: We’ll meet on _______________________nights for 10 weeks.
Our final meeting of the quarter will be on ______________________.
We’ll arrive between ___________ and ____________ and begin the meeting at __________.
Children: Group members are responsible to arrange childcare for their children. Nursing newborns are welcome, provided they are not a distraction to the group.
Study: Each week, we’ll study the same topic(s) covered in the previous weekend’s sermon.
Prayer: Our group will be praying each week for one another and specific mission requests.
Participation: Members of Growth Groups are requested to do their best to make it a priority to attend each week during the 10 week quarter. There are times sickness, vacation, work conflicts and other special events may interfere. At the same time, regular attendance is the key to a healthy group and maximizing our investment in our personal growth.
Preparation: Most weeks, the homework will require from twenty to thirty minutes to adequately prepare for the group study and discussion. Members are asked to do their best to complete homework prior to weekly Growth Group gatherings.
Out of respect for our fellow members, if we cannot come to a meeting, we will _____________ ______________________________________________________________.
________________________________________ _______________
(name) (date)
