* For general information about small groups, click here.
Below is an annual schedule for small groups as well as the character, competency, and commitment expectations for all small group leaders. To see our full Small Group Leader Guide, click here.
Annual Schedule
- The goal for Small Groups is to meet as regularly and often as possible. We seek to meet that goal in 2 ways.
- Way 1 – 6-to-8-Week Fall and Spring Meetings
- We understand that life comes in seasons. So, we have two dedicated times for small groups to meet throughout the year. We have one 6-to-8-week study in the fall and one in the spring.
- Way 2 – Year-Round Meetings
- We would also love for groups to meet regularly throughout the year. Therefore, each small group leader has the freedom to work with the rest of the group to establish a meeting schedule that works for everyone. That said, there are a few expectations for groups that meet year around. Specifically, all groups will…
- Meet at least 2 times per month
- Not make anyone feel like a “bad group member” if they cannot make a meeting or even need to take a short break (e.g., time off in the summer if the group meets all summer long).
- Keep Pastor Ethan in the loop on their schedule
- Put a “hang out” on the calendar if the group takes a break for summer, the holidays, or another reason
- Small Groups are encouraged to participate in an act of service (e.g., going to the Jersey Shore Rescue Mission) together as a group
- We would also love for groups to meet regularly throughout the year. Therefore, each small group leader has the freedom to work with the rest of the group to establish a meeting schedule that works for everyone. That said, there are a few expectations for groups that meet year around. Specifically, all groups will…
Leader Character Expectations
- Possesses and fosters godly character
- Exemplified in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-24)
- Relies on the power of the Holy Spirit in prayer and study/application of the Scriptures
- Leads group by personal example
- Attitude
- Keep a positive and uplifting attitude!
- Recruiting Leaders
- Pray about one person to recruit as a “group leader in training.” Discuss this person with Pastor Ethan and then approach that person about serving.
- Church Activities
- Attend Sunday Morning service with consistency
- Maintain a healthy involvement in the life of the church
- Attitude
Leader Competency Expectations
- Facilitates group discussion in a way that respects everyone’s time
- Keeps any one individual from dominating discussion
- Helps move the discussion forward
- Encourages participation by all group members
- Multiplies Small Group leaders
- Handles conflict within the group biblically, if/when it occurs
- Fosters Christian community within the group
- Provides service opportunities for the group
Leader Commitment Expectations
- For leaders of 6-to-8-week meetings,
- Attend at least 5 of the 7 meetings
- For leaders of Year Around Meetings
- Attend at least 80% of the meetings
- Attend leader trainings
- Run weekly Small Group gatherings according to the responsibilities in the “Weekly Meeting Flow and Leader Responsibilities” section below
- Come to Pastor Ethan if any personal or group issues arise
- Host Small Group in their homes when possible, but hosting is not mandatory for being a Small Group leader.
- Church space is available if no one in the group is able to host in their home. However, home meetings are the ideal setting for Small Groups.