27

Directors Orientation

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Page 1: Directors Orientation
Page 2: Directors Orientation

Welcome Getting Started in Group Lifegroups director orientation information

Page 3: Directors Orientation

pg. 5

Welcome to the North Point Ministries Group Life team! We are excited that you have chosen to join us.

This orientation packet is designed to give you an overview of our Group Life ministry areas, of your group director position, and of the integral role that the ministry and your position plays in the organization as a whole. The Orientation Timeline section of this manual serves as a guide to your orientation process. In keeping with our organizational and divisional culture we have prioritized relationships and environments as the optimal means of delivering content. In addition, we have recommended resources and a list of other topics pertinent to your role.

As you begin your employment as a Community Group Director at North Point Ministries we want to offer several observations that pertain to your orientation. First of all, we understand that different people have different learning styles. Therefore, while the columns of the Timeline Orientation section of this packet suggest a specific delivery of the content, feel free to consult your manager and team members about the possibility of obtaining the relevant information by an alternate means that are more conducive to your style. Secondly, we acknowledge that adults learn best and most on a need-to-know basis. With that in mind, you are encouraged to adjust the time frames (i.e. first week, first month, first quarter, and first six months) to which the various items are assigned. Lastly, we recognize that much of what you learn will be on-the-job training acquired by actually performing the duties of your role. In learning your role in our ministry, we ask that you give attention not only to what we do, but to why we do what we do what we do.

Being a new employee is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and learn how our ministry works. Please, feel free to do so. Your “fresh eyes” for our ministry and organization position you to offer your own unique and valuable questions and insights.

Thank you for choosing to be a part of our team. We look forward to the valuable contributions that you will make in your new role.

The North Point Ministries Group Life Team

Table of Contents

Welcome Letter ........................................................................ 5Orientation Timeline .............................................................. 6NPMI Fundamentals .............................................................. 12 5 Things God Uses to Grow Our Faith ........................ 14 7 Core Values ................................................................ 16 7 Practices for Effective Ministry ................................. 17 Statement of Faith ........................................................ 20 Staff Coaches ................................................................ 21 Division / Campus Collaboration ................................. 22Group Life Fundamentals ....................................................... 24 Leader Essentials ........................................................... 24 Job Description .............................................................. 26 Leader Interview Qualifications & Questions ............... 28 Group Leader Reference Email Template ..................... 30 Covenant ....................................................................... 31 Seasons of Growth ........................................................ 32 FAQs – Community Groups ......................................... 34 FAQs – Assimilation ..................................................... 42 Group Life Definitions ................................................. 48

Page 4: Directors Orientation

pg. 6 pg. 7

Setup a Meeting Attend Read/Listen/Watch Walk Through

! Coordinator – calendar overview, coordinator role & support, reporting systems: _______________________

! Assimilation team member at your campus: _______________________

! Accompany another director on a leader 1-on-1 : _______________________

! Read Getting Started in Group Life – Groups Director Orientation Information

! Read Creating Community, by Bill Willits and Andy Stanley

! Home Campus Facilities Tour

! Organization Structure for NPMI and Campus

Fir

st W

eek

Orientation Timeline

Setup a Meeting Attend Read/Listen/Watch Walk Through

! Starting Point team member at your campus: _______________________

! Leadership Training & Resources (LTR) team member: _______________________

! Team Members of other Group Life departments as desired: _______________________

! Accompany another director on a leader interview: _______________________

! Previous director about leaders/groups: _______________________

! Attend NEXT (first available opportunity)

! Read Seven Practices Of Effective Ministry, by Lane Jones and Andy Stanley

! Watch or listen to “Why I’m A Lifer,” Andy Stanley’s Willow Creek 2009 Groups Conference talk

! Review the membership website

Review Web Resources:

! groupcurriculum.org

! groupleaders.org

Groups Model

! History of groups at NPM

! Transformation vs. information

! Duration of groups

! Covenant

! Closed Groups

! Multiplication

! Number of group members

! Apprenticing

! Leader Development

! 5 C’s

! Facilitating vs. teaching

! Childcare Reimbursement

! Northpointleaders.org

Fir

st M

onth

Ori

enta

tion

Tim

elin

e

Page 5: Directors Orientation

pg. 8 pg. 9

Fir

st Q

uart

erF

irst

6 M

onth

s

Setup a Meeting Attend Read/Listen/Watch Walk Through

! Right Path conversation with manager & a staff coach: _______________________

! Campus Group Life Director: _______________________

! Care team member at your campus: _______________________

! Attend CGLO (first available opportunity)

! Listen to “Trust Over Suspicion,” Andy Stanley’s staff training talk from 7/20/07

! Watch or listen to the “Five Things God Uses To Grow Our Faith” sermon series

! Listen to “40 Miles,” Andy Stanley’s staff training talk from 12/4/06

! Review Insidenorthpoint.org/groups

! Best Practices

! Toolbox Inventory

! PDP Process

Orientation Timeline

Setup a Meeting Attend Read/Listen/Watch Walk Through

! Bill Willits ! Attend SP Orientation ! Listen to “Don’t Be That Couch,” Andy Stanley’s staff training talk from 7/7/08

! Listen to “Polarity Management,” Andy Stanley’s staff training talk from 6/7/04

! Listen to “Repairing the Transmission,” Andy Stanley’s Drive ’06 Session 2 talk

! Review Insidenorthpoint.org

! Facilities tour of the other campuses

Ori

enta

tion

Tim

elin

e

Page 6: Directors Orientation

pg. 10 pg. 11

Opt

iona

l

Setup a Meeting Attend Read/Listen/Watch Walk Through

! Team members of other divisions / departments as necessary in other divisions: _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ _______________________

! Life Lessons Over Lunch Director: _______________________

! Attend Sundays at North Point ! Listen to “Funnel of Love,” Andy Stanley’s staff training talk from 7/1/10

! Read “Leading Life-Changing Small Groups,” by Bill Donahue

! Read No Perfect People Allowed, by John Burke

! Read Everybody’s Normal Till You Get To Know Them, by John Ortberg

! Listen to “Don’t Be Stupid,” Justin Elam’s staff training talk from 8/5/10

! Relationship / information management systems

Orientation Timeline

Ori

enta

tion

Tim

elin

e

Page 7: Directors Orientation

pg. 12 pg. 13

NPMI FundamentalsVision, Mission & StrategyOur vision is to create churches that un-churched people love to attend. Our mission is to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Our strategy is to create environments where people are encouraged and equipped to pursue intimacy with God, community with insiders, and influence with outsiders.

3 Vital Relationships• Intimacy with God• Community with Insiders• Influence with Outsiders

5 Things God Uses to Grow our Faith• Practical Bible Teaching• Private Devotions• Providential Relationships• Pivotal Circumstances• Personal Ministry

3 Key Environments• Foyer• Living Room• Kitchen

7 Core Values• Biblical Authority• Intimacy with God• Relational Evangelism• Authentic Community• Strategic Service• Intentional Apprenticing• Relevant Environments

7 Ministry Practices• Clarify the Win• Think Steps, Not Programs• Narrow the Focus• Teach Less for More• Listen to Outsiders• Replace Yourself• Work On It

Our Groups ModelWe believe that sustained life change happens best within the context of intentional structured relationships. Community groups provide that structure for us at NPMI. A community group is defined as a small group of 6 to 10 individuals or 5 to 6 married couples who meet in someone’s home for fellowship, Bible study, prayer and accountability. They are closed groups with a commitment to meet together for 18 to 24 months.

NPM

I Fun

dam

enta

ls

Page 8: Directors Orientation

pg. 14 pg. 15

5 Things God UsesTo grow our faith

After you became a Christian, what were the defining moments for you in your faith journey? What contributed to your growth? Did you ever fall away? Why? What brought you back? In each of our stories, the catalysts for our spiritual growth typically fall into five categories. We call these the 5 Things God Usesto Grow Our Faith.

I. The Five Things God Uses to Grow Our Faith

A. Practical Bible teaching

B. Private Devotions

C. Providential Relationships

D. Pivotal Circumstances

E. Personal Ministry

Now, if that is how God works, what does that mean for community groups? If we want to have life-changing small groups, we need to work in tandem with these five things. So, what can we do in our groups to facilitate the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of group members? More specifically, what are some practices in which you, as a groups director, can coach group leaders?

This section offers best practices for each of the 5 Things, ideas to assist group leaders in paying attention to, and leveraging these five catalysts in their group.

II. Community Groups and the 5 Things

A. Practical Bible teaching• Choose curriculum that necessitate personal Bible Study.• Choose curriculum that supports the 3 vital relationships (Intimacy with God,

Community with Insiders and Influence with Outsiders).

• Supplement curriculum reading assignments from the Scriptures along with two or three simple questions.

• Orient your discussion time toward application not simply information.

B. Private Devotions• Develop a consistent devotional life.• Assign one or two memory verses for each curriculum you study.• Suggest devotional guides.• Spend time teaching your group how to have a quiet time.• Open group time by asking one member to share a quiet time insight from the

previous week.

C. Providential Relationships• Create space in your life for relationships.• Begin the early sessions with personal testimonies.• Allow for social times regularly• Multiply your group and apprentice another leader.

D. Pivotal Circumstances• Be sensitive to people’s need to process.• Provide Biblical guardrails for their interpretation of current events.• Bear one another’s burdens.

E. Personal Ministry• Encourage group members to join a strategic service team.• Encourage group members to describe their hands-on ministry experiences.• Participate as a group in a ministry project.• Choose a curriculum that focuses on evangelism or spiritual gifts.• Involve every member in ministry to the group. (Example: Share the teaching

assignment, the hosting assignment, the prayer time, select an apprentice.)

Suggestion:Review the 5 Things with your community group. Use this time to explain some ofthe “whys” behind the “whats” of group life. You may want to begin this discussion bygiving illustration of how God has used these five things to facilitate your own spiritual development. N

PMI F

unda

men

tals

Page 9: Directors Orientation

pg. 16 pg. 17

7 Core Values For North Point Ministries

1. Biblical Authority – God has spoken to us through the Bible and we recognize it as the final authority for our lives.

Q. Are your priorities consistent with Scripture?

2. Intimacy with God – God desires an intimate relationship with each of us.

Q. Is your relationship with God growing?

3. Relevant Environments – Every environment should be designed to effectively connect with its target audience.

Q. Are your environments appealing, engaging, and helpful?

4. Relational Evangelism – God’s message of forgiveness through Christ is most effectively conveyed within the context of personal relationships.

Q. In whom are you investing?

5. Authentic Community – Accountability, belonging, care and spiritual growth happen best with relationally-connected believers.

Q. Are you in a small group?

6. Strategic Service – Our spiritual gifts have maximum impact when exercised in support of our strategy.

Q. Where are you serving?

7. Intentional Apprenticing - We are responsible to pass along to others the knowledge, skills and opportunities that have been entrusted to us.

Q. Who are you apprenticing?

7 Practices For Effective Ministry

1. Clarify the WinKeep your ministry aligned by clearly defining what is important

As long as the “win” is unclear . . .1. You force those who want to follow to guess what a win looks like.2. You enable those who want to lead to define winning in their own terms.3. You risk the havoc that misalignment can cause to an organization.

The clearer the “win” . . .1. The easier it is to keep everyone on the same page.2. The better you’ll manage resources.3. The more your staff will say “no” to what doesn’t fit.4. The simpler your structure will stay.5. The greater the potential for momentum.

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NAre your values and vision driving your decisions?

2. Think Steps not ProgramsBefore you start anything make sure it takes you where you need to go

You need to PRE-DECIDE 2 things.1. What you want people to BECOME.2. Where you want people to BE.

Then make sure every environment you design is a step to get them there.

A GOOD STEP has to be . . .1. EASY2. OBVIOUS3. STRATEGIC

Why Churches have Programs, not Steps1. They don’t have a clear strategy.2. They have bought into a ministry “menu” philosophy.3. They feel pressure to provide programming on the basis of needs, not purpose.4. Their staff has built their identity around a program and not a mission.5. They do not have a culture that confronts the “brutal facts”.6. They fear the fallout of eliminating certain programs.7. They have not given their leaders permission to “not” do some things.

NPM

I Fun

dam

enta

ls

Page 10: Directors Orientation

pg. 18 pg. 19

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NIs there a step to add or a program to subtract?

3. Narrow the FocusDon’t try to do everything in every environment, do a few things well

1. Focus on WHO you want to reach.2. Focus on WHAT you want to accomplish.

YOU HAVE TO DRAW A CLEAR TARGET,IF YOU WANT EVERYONE TO AIM IN THE SAME DIRECTION!

The more focused the environment . . . the greater the relevance. the better the connection. the higher the quality.

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NHow do you define success for each environment?

4. Teach Less for MoreReduce curriculum down to an “irreducible minimum” and establish a cycle

TEACH WITH THE END IN MIND!

A. The “Teach Less for More” concept is based on this premise:1. All Scripture is equally INSPIRED.2. All Scripture is NOT equally IMPORTANT.3. All Scripture is NOT equally APPLICABLE.

B. To “Teach Less for More” you need to:1. Decide WHAT you are going to say.2. Decide HOW you are going to say it.3. Decide to say ONE thing at a time.4. Then say it OVER and OVER again.

C. Reasons churches don’t “Teach Less for More.”1. They are programmed to teach information, not application.2. They worry about not having enough to say.3. They fear they will leave something out.4. It’s easier to teach more for less, than it is to teach less for more.

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NWhat are the “irreducible minimums” you teach?

5. Listen to OutsidersBecome a student of the target audience you are trying to reach

How to make outsiders a priority:1. Study the EXPERTS.2. Practice an “INVEST & INVITE” Strategy.3. Ignore INSIDERS.

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NDo insiders get excited about inviting outsiders to your church?

6. Replace YourselfMake sure every volunteer recruits a volunteer to multiply the base of ministry

Intentional apprenticing solves a number of problems.1. It allows you to recruit exponentially.2. It protects the quality of leaders.3. It gives people confidence to serve effectively.4. It insures your future as an organization.

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NWho is the best prospect to do what you are doing ?

7. Work on it, Not Just in itEstablish consistent blocks of time to celebrate and evaluate what you do

1. CALENDAR TIME.2. CELEBRATE THE WINS.3. CONFRONT THE FACTS.

C R I T I C A L Q U E S T I O NAre spending time working ON your ministry, or just IN it?

NPM

I Fun

dam

enta

ls

Page 11: Directors Orientation

pg. 20 pg. 21

Statement of FaithNorth Point Ministries

What does North Point Ministries believe about the Scripture?We believe the entire Bible is the inspired Word of God and that men were moved by the Spirit to write words of Scripture. Therefore, the Bible is without error.

What does North Point Ministries believe about God?We believe in one God who exists in three distinct persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). We believe that Jesus Christ is the second member of the Trinity (the Son of God) who became flesh to reveal God to man and to become the Savior of the lost world.

What does North Point Ministries believe about mankind?We believe that man was created in the image of God to have fellowship with Him, but became alienated from that relationship through sinful disobedience. As a result, man is totally incapable of coming back into a right relationship with God by his own effort.

What does North Point Ministries believe about salvation?We believe that the shed blood of Jesus Christ on the cross provides the sole basis for the forgiveness of sins. Therefore, salvation only occurs when a person places his faith in the death and resurrection of Christ as the sufficient payment for his sin.

What does North Point Ministries believe about the Christian life?We believe that every Christian should live for Christ and not for himself. By obedience to the Word and daily yielding to the Spirit, every believer will mature and become conformed to the image of Christ.

What does North Point Ministries believe about the church?We believe that the church is the body of Christ of which Jesus Christ is the Head. The members are those who have trusted by faith the finished work of Christ. The purpose of the church is to glorify God by loving Him and by making Him known to a lost world.

Staff CoachesNorth Point Ministries

We recognize that there are times when you may need to speak to someone on staff regarding a work or personal situation and you may not feel comfortable in talking with your direct supervisor. That is the reason why we have created the staff coach role. At each North Point Ministries campus, we have staff coaches who are available to meet with you. The information you share with your staff coach will be kept confidential. We would ask that male employees meet with a male staff coach and female employees meet with a female staff coach. You can contact Staff Coaches at any campus regardless of the campus you work at. Staff coaches are as follows:

Browns Bridge Community Church Al Causey Middle School Group Director Bob Hempen Director of Married Community Groups Shawnie Merritt Assistant to Lane Jones Elaine Scott Women’s Community Group Director

Buckhead Church Susanne Fatigati Membership Director Kristen Franklin Assistant to Jeff Henderson Mike Glogorski Director of Care Network John Hambrick Director of Married Community Groups

North Point Community Church Cliff Atfield Married Community Group Director Darcy Dickerson Associate Service Programming Director Diane Grant Assistant to Andy Stanley Ashley Kirkman Assistant to Bill Willits Fran LaMattina Director of Women s Community Groups Dave Lewis Director of Care Network Janet Schroer Women s Community Group Director Tom Shefchunas Director of Middle School Dan Stonaker Associate Director of Ministry Services Donald Wise Strategic Partner Director John Woodall Director of Married Community Groups

NPM

I Fun

dam

enta

ls

Page 12: Directors Orientation

pg. 22 pg. 23

Division/Campus CollaborationGroup Life Division – North Point Ministries

Like any organization, as NPMI has grown in size we have grown in complexity. Having multiple campuses has multiplied the challenges of communication and collaboration. In an attempt to manage the tension between efficiency and creativity effectively, the organization has clarified the responsibilities held by campuses and those held by division (in your case Group Life) in several areas. This grid is provided to give context on and insight into the organizational leadership and decision-making structure.

Division Responsibilities Campus Responsibilities

!"#$$- staffing requests (w/ campus) - staffing requests (w/ division)

- staffing/interview strategy - interview process

- staff hiring (w/ campus) - staff hiring (w/ division)

- staff development - staff logistics

%&'(&#)- program concepts - program implementation

- ministry branding/marketing - ministry promotion

- systems design - systems implementation

- group content/curriculum plan - content/curriculum implementation

- fusion teacher content - fusion teacher coordination

- calendar planning - calendar implementation

- budget strategy/priorities - final proposed budget

- printed materials/layout - printing/distribution

*#+,-,".- facility design - facility decorations

- facility scheduling/logistics

/'-01"22&3- training strategy - strategy implementation

- combined training events - campus specific events

Notes

NPM

I Fun

dam

enta

ls

Page 13: Directors Orientation

pg. 24 pg. 25

Group Life FundamentalsLeader Essentials 6 Leader Essentials OverviewEach leader is equipped, developed and monitored around 6 key essentials that we have defined as the components to a healthy group experience. While the list is not exhaustive, we feel the group experience will be valuable for both the leader and the participant if the leader implements these priorities. All of our equipping times, both corporate and one-on-one, are centered on these essentials. The six leader essentials are detailed below.

1. Think Life Change - Why we do groupsA. The objective of a community group is to create an environment where God is able to work in the lives of group members.B. Over time, your group can easily drift away from doing the things that best help it accomplish this objective.C. Keeping the life change goal in front of the group challenges us to make the group meetings purposeful.D. This essential reminds us of why we do groups.

2. Cultivate Relationships - How you build communityA. Healthy group relationships require regular and intentional investments.B. Taking steps early to build the relational capital of the group is one of the most important things you can do for a new group.C. This essential focuses on how you build community in a group.

3. Promote Participation - How you lead and Involve othersA. Community group leaders are facilitator of discussion, not teachers of curriculum.B. Shared participation creates broader ownership of the curriculum and of the group.C. Group members should be encouraged to participate in the facilitation and the leadership of the group meeting.D. This essential focuses us on how you lead the group meeting.

4. Replace Yourself - How you intentionally apprenticeA. Apprenticing is the most effective way to train new group leaders.B. An apprentice is someone who has the potential to replace you, not simply assist you.

C. Identifying an apprentice in the first six months off your group helps insure that your group is ready to multiply at the end of your covenant period.D. Our multiplication strategy necessitates the need for apprentices at every level.E. This essential focuses on how you intentionally apprentice.

5. Provide Care - How you handle tough situationsA. The most effective support during times of crisis or special need comes from people you know well.B. Effective community groups are biblically functioning communities of encouragement and care.C. The primary way we provide care to our attendees in through our community groups.D. This essential focuses on how you deal with challenging situations in your group, and the additional resources that are available from Buckhead Church.

6. Multiply Influence - How you maximize impactA. The success of the group can be the demise of system (i.e., not multiplying)B. Multiplying new groups allows you to multiply your influence.

Year # People Today 10 1.5 20 3.0 40 6.0 160 9.0 640 10.5 1280

C. New members bring new vitality to your group.D. Multiplying your current group provides an opportunity for others to participate in a group.E. Ways to reduce the trauma of multiplication:• Use the covenant to establish a birth date• Enlist an apprentice early• Talk about multiplying early and often• Multiply around the best times ( January & September) to form a new group.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 14: Directors Orientation

pg. 26 pg. 27

North Point MinistriesJob Description

Married Community Groups Director

Purpose Statement:A Community Groups Director is responsible for shepherding and leading approximately 75 group leaders by encouraging and equipping them to pursue the three vital relationships and the six leader essentials.

Reports to:Director of Married Community Groups

Profile:The profile of a Community Groups Director should be a blend between people and task personality traits. He/She also should have one or more of the following spiritual gifts: leadership, discernment, exhortation, teaching and pastor/shepherd.

Priorities/Responsibilities:

Highest Payback Activities• Enlisting• Shepherding• Administration• Multiplication• Events

Shepherd Leaders (70%)1. Meet one on one with leaders 3 times a year. 2. Equip and develop each leader around our 3 vital relationships and the 6 leader essentials.3. Monitor the health, effectiveness and duration of groups.4. Be available to minister and serve each leader.5. Recruit New Leaders

Interview all new leaders in preparation for each GroupLink. Assist in identifying apprentice leaders within existing groups.Constantly recruit new leaders.6. Oversee Multiplication• Track group progress through 12-24 month duration.• Identify apprentices and begin developing them in preparation for leadership. • Meet with apprentices when possible.• Encourage multiplication of groups.

Administration (15%) 1. Manage notes from meetings with leaders.2. Setting up 1-on-1 meetings (or working with coordinators to assist in meeting scheduling).3. Verify that all group information is current and accurate after each 1-on-1 meeting or as needed.4. Insure timely follow up after each GroupLink.• Contact Starter Groups to determine which groups are continuing into

Community Groups.• Contact Formative Groups to offer assistance, discuss leadership options and

determine any appropriate next steps.5. Participate with various Group Life teams and meetings that focus on the ongoing development of the ministry.

Events and Training (15%)1. Participate in GroupLink activities including:• Environment set up • Leader meeting assistance• Event attendance• Environment breakdown

2. Participate in planning and execution of training events across multiple campuses.3. Assist in planning and execution of yearly group leadership events across campuses.4. Participate in leading and serving at Community Group Leader Orientations.5. Participate in developing leadership tools for our leaders as needed.6. Assist periodically in execution of NEXT environments.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 15: Directors Orientation

pg. 28 pg. 29

Community Group Leader Interview & Qualifications

Process:Those interested in being a Community Group Leader should fill out a leader application and meet with a staff person for an interview before taking on the role of Community Group Leader.

Profile:The Community Group Leader is responsible for providing his/her community group with vision, direction and support. The Group Leader is supported by a Community Group Director.

Qualifications:The Community Group Leader is to:

• Be a member of the church• Fill out application• Be interviewed by a staff member• Be willing to participate in regular leadership trainings and one on one’s• Preferably had previous small group experience

Expectations:• Shepherds the group by facilitating the group meeting and monitoring it’s health

and duration• Guides decisions relating to the covenant and curriculum around the 3 vital

relationships• Participates in and encourages the spiritual growth of group members (needs to

hint at apprenticing/serving)

Leader interview process for Group Director:• Group Director receives leader application from Coordinator• Group Director contacts applicant to schedule leader interview• Contact applicant in a timely manner. Do not approve in the meeting.

Resources:• 5 C’s of leader interview• Leader interview/questionnaire/overview

• Reference email template

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 16: Directors Orientation

pg. 30 pg. 31

Reference Email Template Hi [REFERENCE],

[APPLICANT] has applied to be a singles small group leader at North Point Community Church/Buckhead Church/Brown’s Bridge Community Church and has listed you as a reference. A small group is an environment where participants are encouraged to pursue authentic community (accountability, belonging and care) and spiritual growth (intimacy with God, community with insiders and influence with outsiders). The role of a leader is to shepherd the group by providing vision, direction and support for the group. I’d be very grateful if you could take a few minutes to answer the following questions.

1.) In what capacity do you know the applicant? How long? 2.) Do you see this person growing spiritually and toward leadership? Please give an example.

3.) How have you seen her intimacy with God influence those around her?

4.) What spiritual authority does she have in her life? Does she submit to authority?

5.) Have you seen her in a small group setting? If yes, does she guide discussions? Does she take a teaching approach? Does she tend to dominate discussions? Is she faithful to be there each week with study material completed? Does she make herself available to the group members?

6.) Rate her listening skills on a scale of 1-10 (10 being highest). What would have to change for you to rate her a 10?

7.) What strengths AND weaknesses does she have? What would it take to improve her skills in her weak areas?

Please feel free to share any additional comments or concerns. Thank you for your time!

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

!"#$%&'

!"#$%"&'()#*#$%)('+,*-.)#)/&'%"/0)/,#12)%)#$*%,'+'$*/,3#)4$)%')/+)#*5,2)/,'+#+"005/',6#*/(#3$'%',5*.#7%"1,28

()*"'&+,+-%)*&

!"#$%&'()*&+)92'.)#$%*6)%#*/(#('3+533'"/#":#+5%%'+5.50#*%)#;)6#).)0)/,3#":#*#+"005/',6#7%"5$<#,2)#(%'&'/7#:"%+)#-)2'/(#,2)#7%"5$#'3#,2)#-5'.('/7#":#%).*,'"/32'$38

,-%*"(%&.&%/!2)#*,0"3$2)%)#":#*#="005/',6#>%"5$#32"5.(#)/+"5%*7)#"$)//)33#*/(#,%*/3$*%)/+6#*0"/7#0)0-)%38##!2'3#'3#*/#)/&'%"/0)/,#12)%)#$)"$.)#32"5.(#:)).#:%))#,"#-)#,2)03).&)38

0'(12"(%&$#&%/?"%#*5,2)/,'+',6#,"#"++5%<#0)0-)%3#053,#-)#*-.)#,"#,%53,#,2*,#'335)3#('3+533)(#1',2#*#="005/',6#>%"5$#*%)#/",#,"#-)#32*%)(#"5,3'()#":#,2)#7%"5$8

!")+".%>%"5$#0)0-)%3#32"5.(#/)&)%#3*6#*/6,2'/7#,2*,#1'..#)0-*%%*33#,2)'%#3$"53)#"%#0)0-)%3#":#,2)#7%"5$8

,3$&#$4&#&%/@#$%'0*%6#%)3$"/3'-'.',6#":#+"005/',6#'3#,"#$%'"%','A)#:"%#3$)+'B+#%).*,'"/32'$38##!2'3#%)C5'%)3#*#1'..'/7/)33#,"#-)#*&*'.*-.)#,"#0)),#)*+2#",2)%D3#/))(38

5-#%&+#&.$%&'(>%"5$#0)0-)%3#%)+"7/'A)#,2*,#"/)#":#,2)#7"*.3#":#,2)'%#7%"5$#'3#,"#3,*%,#*#/)1#7%"5$#1',2'/#EF#0"/,238##!2'3#*.."13#",2)%3#,"#)4$)%')/+)#,2)#="005/',6#>%"5$#%).*,'"/32'$8

-#%"$+-"./'*.0'&

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

O#+"&)/*/,#,"7),2)%#1',2#,2)#",2)%#0)0-)%3#":#,2'3#7%"5$#,"#2"/"%#,2'3#*7%))0)/,8##P.)*3)#3'7/#-)."1#*/(#3)/(#*#+"$6#,"#6"5%#+"*+2#*/(#)*+2#7%"5$#0)0-)%8

>%"5$#Q)*()%R3ST# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# R3'7/S# R$%'/,S#U#Q)*()%3#V/.6

>%"5$#N)0-)%3T# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG############# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG# GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG

R3'7/S

CovenantOne of the most important features of a community group is having a predictable environment. Casting vision for the purpose of groups, sharing an understanding of the values expressed in community, and communicating expectations for group participation all contribute to an environment in which individuals feel safe and comfortable. Used at the beginning of a group’s commitment, the covenant is a conversation piece that provides an overview of the group, defines the group’s duration, and galvanizes members’ commitment.

Page 17: Directors Orientation

pg. 32 pg. 33

Seasons of Growth Everyone who attends one of our campuses is at a unique place spiritually. As a result, each person’s needs are different – the most relevant environments, the most pertinent messages, the most applicable resources, and the best next steps are different for each individual.

Taking peoples’ spiritual timing, personal interest, and missional engagement into consideration allows us to direct people more effectively. This tool was developed to inform people about our resources and environments and to assist us into guiding people to the best next steps for them.

Page 18: Directors Orientation

pg. 34 pg. 35

FAQsCommunity Groups

Question: How do you define a community group?Community groups are small groups of approximately six married couples or eight to ten individuals of the same gender that meet weekly in someone’s home for fellowship, Bible study, prayer, and accountability. They are for adults of all ages, stages of life, and spiritual maturity. Most community groups are formed as people meet and connect at GroupLinks.

Question: Why does North Point do community groups?We believe that it is in the context of intentional relationships where significant life change takes place best. Community groups are the place where real life and real issues are discussed. This is the environment to celebrate the successes and good times of life and comfort one another in the tough and disappointing times. It is a place to be encouraged, equipped and challenged to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Question: When do community groups meet?Each community group decides when and where it wants to meet. Most groups meet at least 3 times a month. As individuals seek to join a community group, we help them find people that are meeting on a particular night and in a certain area of the city. All of our community groups meet in group members’ homes. With the exception of Starting Point groups, no small groups meet at the church.

Question: How long does a community group last?Initially, all of the groups that are formed at GroupLink begin as Starter Groups. Starter Groups are created to be an introductory step into group life. After eight weeks, group members can decide to continue on with their Starter Group members or dissolve to find another group. Starter Group members who continue on establish themselves as a community group and commit to meet for an additional twelve to twenty-four months. Each group determines the duration of time that they will meet.

Question: How are the single adult living room environments and single adult community groups related?Our FUSiON gatherings function as a step between our Sunday worship service foyer environments and our community groups. FUSiON attendees experience a taste of community in discussion groups at the gatherings, and are regularly encouraged to connect into a community group. Community group members are also encouraged to participate in FUSiON gatherings as another opportunity to connect relationally with the members of their group, as well as other single adults, on a regular basis. The Single Adult Living Room and Single Adult Community Group teams also work together to execute an annual Labor Day singles retreat and other special events.

Question: What is your process for connecting people into community groups?The primary way we connect people into community groups is through GroupLink. We hold four GroupLink weekend events per year.

Question: What is a Starter Group, and how is it different from a community group?A Starter Group is a group that has agreed to meet together for eight weeks to get to know each other, do a relational type curriculum, and at the end of that time determine whether or not they want to stay together for another twelve to twenty-four months as a community group. The main purpose of a Starter Group is getting to know each other and forming relationships. This sets the foundation for the group, as it becomes a community group.

Question: What is your process for tracking Starter Groups?After Starter Groups are formed, information about the group and its members are entered into our church management database, and a special notation is made to indicate that the group is in the starter phase. Starter groups are then assigned to the appropriate group director, and each director follows up with the leader at least once during the eight-week starter period. Eight weeks after the group’s start date, the leader is contacted to find out if the group has decided to continue on as a community group, as well as to update any members that have been added or dropped during the starter period.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 19: Directors Orientation

pg. 36 pg. 37

Question: What about those who don’t get connected into a community group at GroupLink?A volunteer assimilator or Assimilation staff member contacts those who don’t get connected to help them determine their “next steps”. Most of the time they are directed to the next GroupLink opportunity.

Question: You don’t have mixed gender single adult community groups, why?The purpose of a community group is to provide a predictable environment where participants can experience authentic community and spiritual growth. We believe that this happens best with single adults when they are connected with members of the same gender. It is inherently more difficult for a leader to create a predictable environment with single men and women together in the same group. The relational dynamics created by a mixed environment limit the accountability that is possible or appropriate. As a result, we do not believe mixed-gender single adult groups experience the same level of community that is possible in same-gender groups.

Question: How do groups choose curriculum?The first source of tension for new groups can often be around curriculum. We have chosen to remove that potential obstacle by giving group members their first curriculum at GroupLink. After the first study is complete, our leaders have access to www.groupcurriculum.org, which is an online resource that gives them over 200 different choices as well as ratings and feedback from other leaders. They also have the option to contact their director to assist them in the selection process. Our goal is that groups choose studies that promote growth around the 3 vital relationships (Intimacy with God, Community with Insiders and Influence with Outsiders).

Question: How do groups add additional group members in the event that group members move or get married?We encourage group members to look at their existing relationships first. (friends, neighbors, etc.) After that we encourage them to go to a GroupLink or contact their area assimilator.

Question: What makes your groups model unique from others?Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of our model is the closed group structure. We believe relationships take time to form and anything that gets in the way of the group building the relational capital of the group works against this reality. Groups stay closed for a predetermined time of twelve to twenty-four months. At that time they multiply to form at least two new groups. (If a group loses members along the way, they are free to add new a member or couple if everyone in the group agrees.)

Question: What is the purpose of the covenant and is it really necessary?The covenant is a tool used by the group members to help establish expectations and manage the group for the duration of its life cycle. Its use is essential because most problems that groups face are due to unmet expectations.

Question: How is childcare provided for community groups?Parents arrange for childcare during their community group, but we provide childcare reimbursements at a pre-determined rate. Childcare reimbursements are requested online.

Question: What is your process for recruiting and approving leaders?Our primary means to identify potential leaders is our apprenticing process. Part of the responsibility of leading a group is executing the leader essential ‘Replace Yourself ’ by identifying a leader apprentice within the first six to nine months of a group. Once the apprentice is identified, they still must be approved to lead by a staff director. The approval process for group leaders includes:

1. Completing a leadership application online. 2. Completing the process to become a member of the church (in the event they are not members already)3. Meeting with a staff director for an interview4. Committing to ongoing development, beginning with a one-time community group leader orientation before or shortly after starting their group

When making the decision whether or not to approve someone for leadership, the candidates are evaluated in five key areas:

1. Character - Is this person in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ?2. Competence - Does this person have the skills and experience to lead a group?

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 20: Directors Orientation

pg. 38 pg. 39

3. Culture - Does this person embrace the mission, vision and strategy of the church?4. Connected - Is this person connected to the church through membership?5. Chemistry - Is this someone with whom you’d like to be in a group?

Question: Can people who have been divorced lead community groups?Yes, we do allow people who have been divorced to lead community groups. During the interview process, we ask the candidate who has been divorced to share the circumstances of their divorce in the context of their life story and spiritual journey. During this time we ask questions to discern what steps the person took to reconcile with their spouse, accept responsibility for the failure of the marriage, and seek personal recovery and growth after the end of their marriage. As a general guideline, we do not want to place someone into a position of leadership within two years of a divorce or without completing a structured divorce recovery program, such as an Oasis group.

Question: How do leaders choose and prepare an apprentice?A leader should choose someone who could replace them. The best way to prepare an apprentice is to include them in every aspect of facilitating and leading the group. In looking for an apprentice, we ask leaders to look for those who have the four C’s (character, competency, culture and chemistry) to lead a group.

Question: Is there only one leader in a group, or does leadership rotate?There is only one leader of the group, but we encourage leaders to rotate the responsibility of facilitating and hosting the group meeting. This builds up future leaders and helps all group members take ownership for the group.

Question: How do husbands and wives lead together?Couples are encouraged to complement each other in a community group the same way they would in their marriage. We see groups as a great place for everyone to exercise their spiritual gifts.

Question: How do you address men’s issues and women’s issues in the context of a married couples group?We encourage men and women to separate as needed for prayer, sharing, and for studying a curriculum specific to their respective needs.

Question: How do you foster accountability in a Married community group? We do this by encouraging men and women to separate for prayer time, guys/girls night out, or even for a short curriculum.

Question: How do you provide care for community group leaders/members with marital struggles?The first line of defense is always the group and the group leader. If the situation is more challenging than they feel comfortable with, the leader will contact their staff group director for additional help. The next step will be the Care Ministry, where they will be encouraged to attend an Intimate Encounters group, a ministry to heal hurting marriages and make good marriages better. For those who need professional counseling, we have a list of local counselors that we will refer them to.

Question: How do you address emotional issues in community groups?Part of the role of the group director is to provide encouragement, direction, and support to assist leaders in navigating through difficult issues that arise in their groups. We make every effort to help the group leader successfully work through these issues without direct involvement from the director. However, there are times that the director needs to get personally involved. This can include meeting with individual members of the group, the entire group, or acting as a mediator to facilitate a conflict situation. In these situations where direct involvement is necessary, the group director discerns when it is necessary to engage with our Care Ministry for further assistance. These instances may include seeking a counseling referral, guiding a member toward a support group environment, or seeking benevolence assistance.

Question: What is your process for handling “troubled” groups (i.e. a group that is dying before it’s supposed to end)?The group director is responsible for working with the group leader to help him create a predictable environment where the group participants experience authentic community and spiritual growth. Part of this responsibility is being able to diagnose unhealthy circumstances that arise in a group and guide the leader through those situations. Each leader receives individualized instruction from their director based on their needs and the needs of the group. Every effort is made to help make the group successful, but if all attempts are unsuccessful, the director shepherds the leader through the process of early multiplication. G

roup

Life

Fun

dam

enta

ls

Page 21: Directors Orientation

pg. 40 pg. 41

Question: How do you get groups to multiply?We get groups to multiply by continually casting vision to our leaders, who in turn continually cast it to their groups. We also encourage leaders to identify and equip an apprentice. The apprentice will take half of the group and start a new group, while the leader keeps the other half and starts another new group.

Question: Do you recommend groups meet outside of their weekly meeting times?Yes! We recommend groups have regularly scheduled planned interruptions. A planned interruption can be a social event, a community service project, or even an overnight retreat.

Question: How do you train your leaders?We offer our leaders multiple training opportunities:

• Community Group Leader Orientation (CGLO): This training provides new leaders with tools they will need for the first six months of their group. We also introduce new leaders to our six Essentials (Think Life Change, Cultivate Relationships, Promote Participation, Replace Yourself, Provide Care, & Multiply Influence).

• Three One-on-One meetings (one per trimester each year): Directors meet with each leader individually at least three times a year.

• One Fall S2 Training (annually): Directors gather leaders in groups of 50-75 for skills training and shared learning at gatherings we call S2 (Skills development & Shared learning.) Leaders are given a choice of several S2 dates.

• One Winter re:roup event (annually): A large training environment where group leaders and apprentices gather together for worship, teaching (large-group and workshops), and encouragement. This event occurs on one day (or evening) in the fall.

Question: What is your process for keeping up with leader meetings (i.e. tracking system for one-on-ones, etc.)?Our directors use a personal information manager (PIM) on their computer to track contact information about their leaders, schedule leader meetings, and record information about those meetings for future reference. After meeting with a leader, the director records the following information about the meeting in their PIM software:

• How is the leader doing personally? How are they growing in their relationship with Christ?

• How is their group going? How are their group members experiencing growth in their relationship with Christ? How are they creating a predictable environment around the six leader essentials?

• What are next steps that need to happen after this meeting?

Question: What is the average week in the life of a staff director like?They average seven to nine meetings, including leader meetings, leader interviews, and staff meetings. Approximately 15% of their time is spent in administrative duties such as weekly reports, documenting meeting notes, scheduling meetings with leaders, and other duties as assigned.

Question: Is there a website where other churches can learn more about North Point’s philosophy and opportunities for small groups?We are constantly adding information to our website, but our most current information is on www.insidenorthpoint.org/groups.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 22: Directors Orientation

pg. 42 pg. 43

FAQsAssimilation

OverviewOne of our key measures of success at Buckhead Church is defined by how effectively our ministries move people relationally from our large environments into small groups. The process of connecting people into small groups is a vital component of our strategy.We have a team of staff and volunteers that enable us to move people from rows on Sunday morning to seats around the kitchen table. We have made the process simple for the participants by creating GroupLink, an environment that fosters a relational connection.

Question: How do you define a community group?Community groups are small groups of approximately six married couples or eight to ten individuals of the same gender that meet weekly in someone’s home to study God’s word, pray for one another, and discuss the issues and challenges of life. They are for adults of all ages, stages of life, and spiritual maturity. Most community groups are formed as people meet and connect at GroupLinks.

Question: Why does Buckhead Church do community groups?We believe that it is in the context of intentional relationships where significant life change takes place best. Community groups are the place where real life and real issues are discussed. This is the environment to celebrate the successes and good times of life and comfort one another in the tough and disappointing times. It is a place to be encouraged, equipped and challenged to grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Question: When do community groups meet?Each community group decides when and where it wants to meet. Most groups meet at least 3 times a month. All of our community groups meet in group members’ homes. With the exception of Starting Point groups, no small groups meet at the church.

Question: How long does a community group last?Initially, all of the groups that are formed at GroupLink begin as starter groups. Starter groups are created to be an introductory step into group life. After eight weeks, group

members can decide to continue on with their starter group members or dissolve to find another group. Starter group members who continue on establish themselves as a community group and commit to meet for an additional twelve to twenty-four months. Each group determines the duration of time that they will meet.

Question: What criteria do you use to place people in community groups?Typically, people looking to connect to a new community group for the first time use the following criteria:

• Stage of life (i.e., married with kids, married with no kids, married empty nesters, single males or single females)

• Area of town • Day/Night of the week

Question: What is your process for connecting people into community groups?The primary way we connect people into community groups is through GroupLink. We publicize GroupLink during our Sunday services. Assimilators are volunteers who assist attendees at GroupLink in connecting into a group. They also contact group seekers prior to a GroupLink event to answer any questions. Throughout the year, people can fill out their information online if they have questions and would like for an assimilator to contact them. Their information is entered into the Assimilation database and the assimilator for their area is notified that he/she has a new group seeker. Within that week, the new group seeker is contacted via phone or e-mail by an assimilator or an Assimilation staff member.

Question: What is GroupLink?GroupLink is a two-hour event where people meet and connect with others in their area and stage of life to start a community group. Groups are asked to initially commit to meeting together for eight weeks. They spend that time getting to know each other and doing a short Bible study together. At the end of the eight weeks, group members decide to either continue with the group for an additional twelve to twenty-four months, or wait and join a different group at another time.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 23: Directors Orientation

pg. 44 pg. 45

Question: What does GroupLink entail?When leaders arrive, they sign in at the leader check-in table and receive leader packets and leader nametags. Staff members are there to update contact or group information on the leader list. The leader list has the names of all of the leaders who plan to attend the GroupLink. It is important to have the most accurate information, as this list is used by our volunteers and staff to assist attendees in finding groups. When attendees arrive they sign in. At Married Couples’ GroupLink they sign in by stage of life. At Men’s and Women’s GroupLink they do not identify stages of life. Inside the event, Men and Woman can choose single-only community groups or groups of various stages of life (can be a combination of married, single, divorced, and/or widowed).

• Men’s and Women’s: Same gender single-only group members or various stage of life (can be a combination of married, single, divorced, and/or widowed).

• Married Couples: No Children, With Children, and Empty Nesters.

The First 30 Minutes of the Event – Mingle The main event location is divided into the four areas of town (Midtown/Decatur, Buckhead, Sandy Springs/Dunwoody and Smyrna/Vinings). Attendees will mingle with the purpose of meeting people who live in their area of town and are in their stage of life. During the mingling time, we have assimilators and connectors (volunteers who help seekers connect into groups) mixing with the attendees to make sure no one is standing alone. The Second 30 Minutes of the Event – Form Groups The host directs attendees to start identifying other people whom they want to be in a group with and to start discussing the night of the week they would like to meet. Volunteers assist each group and walk them through the group formation process.

The Third 30 Minutes of the Event – Time to Watch a Video Once the new groups have formed, attendees sit and watch a GroupLink video that explains what to expect in a community group.

The Last 30 Minutes of the Event – The First Meeting At this point, all the groups that have formed have their first group “social” where they are sitting. Icebreaker-type questions are distributed on cards for the leaders to facilitate. The groups are then instructed to fill out datasheets that capture all group members’ information. The volunteers collect the datasheets and hand out the study guides called Community: Your Pathway To Progress by North Point Resources. This curriculum is offered to group members free of charge as a starter study. Datasheets are turned in to staff members and the attendees are free to leave.

Question: How often do you hold GroupLink?GroupLink is held 4 times a year ( January, March, August, and October).

Question: What different types of community groups do you make available through GroupLink?In selecting the group that is right for them, attendees select a married, single (male or female), womens (single and married), mens (single and married), or college (male or female) group, depending upon their stage of life.

Question: What is the most challenging thing about GroupLink?When participants are released to form groups, it is organized chaos. It is a very awkward time for us, as we always want to jump in and match people up, but we remind ourselves that God is in control. It’s exciting to sit back and watch how God brings groups together.

Question: What is the most rewarding thing about GroupLink?It is always exciting to see God bring groups together and hear the stories of the life change that happens when people are in community!

Question: What’s the next step for people who get connected into a community group at GroupLink?The group typically decides at GroupLink a time and location for their first meeting. Group leaders leave the GroupLink that night with contact information for everyone in the starter group.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 24: Directors Orientation

pg. 46 pg. 47

Question: What is a starter group, and how is it different from a community group?A starter group is a group that has agreed to meet together for eight weeks to get to know each other, do a relational type curriculum, and at the end of that time determine whether or not they want to stay together for another twelve to twenty-four months as a community group. The main purpose of a starter group is getting to know each other and forming relationships. This sets the foundation for the group, as it becomes a community group.

Question: What is your process for tracking starter groups?After starter groups are formed, information about the group and its members are entered into our church management database, and a special notation is made to indicate that the group is in the starter phase. Starter groups are then assigned to the appropriate group director, and each director follows up with the leader at least once during the eight-week starter period. Eight weeks after the group’s start date, the leader is contacted to find out if the group has decided to continue on as a community group, as well as to update any members that have been added or dropped during the starter period.

Question: What about those who don’t get connected into a community group at GroupLink?A volunteer assimilator or Assimilation staff member contacts those who don’t get connected to help them determine their “next steps”. Most of the time they are directed to the next GroupLink opportunity.

Question: How do you advertise GroupLink?GroupLink is advertised primarily through our website, church bulletin, and Sunday morning stage announcements. Additionally, at least one vision message per year is given on the benefits of being in a group (this is usually given close to the time of our August GroupLink).

Question: What is your process for keeping up with people who desire to be in a community group when there isn’t a GroupLink available (i.e. database)?Those who don’t get connected through GroupLink or desire to be connected between GroupLinks will need to electronically submit a request for more information about getting connected into a group. A volunteer assimilator or Assimilation staff member will

contact them and help them figure out “next steps” for locating a community group. Our assimilation staff and volunteers maintain a database of people seeking to get into groups. If there are existing groups that have openings, the assimilation staff will work throughout the year to help people get connected.

Question: Are community group leaders chosen prior to GroupLink?We try to identify leaders prior to GroupLink. Each leader candidate meets with a Groups Director before the event for approval. However, there are times when we do not have enough available leaders at a GroupLink to meet the demand from group seekers. In this case, we form what we call formative groups at GroupLink which are temporary groups which do not yet have a group leader. Formative groups are provided a separate curriculum at GroupLink and are charged with nominating someone from their group to complete the leadership approval process.

Question: How do you recruit leaders for GroupLink?Community Group Directors are always working to recruit qualified people to lead community groups. Any time a group is formed without a leader (i.e., a formative group), a contact person is appointed and the group meets socially for a few weeks to see if someone will step up to lead. A Community Group Director also spends time getting to know the group and helps them to appoint a qualified leader. If no leader is found, we ask the group to wait and come to the next GroupLink to find a leader.

Question: Is it possible for other churches to purchase the 8-minute video that is shown at GroupLink?The connection video used at our GroupLink as well as other resources is available as part of our GroupLink Starter Kit for churches. For more information on this resource, please visit http://resources.northpoint.org/store/shop.do?pID=1539.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 25: Directors Orientation

pg. 48 pg. 49

Group Life DefinitionsApprentice: An apprentice is someone who has the potential and passion to lead and shepherd a Community Group.

Assimilation: The assimilation team puts on GroupLink events and helps, through the volunteer assimilator, to connect leaders with potential group members throughout the year.

Assimilator: A volunteer responsible for creating an environment that moves church attendees into Community Groups. The Assimilator reports to the Director of Assimilation (staff position).

Community Group Director: A staff person responsible for shepherding and leading 60-75 group leaders by encouraging and equipping them to pursue the three vital relationships and the six leader essentials.

Community Group Leader Orientation (CGLO): An orientation for new Community Group Leaders, apprentices and/or those interested in finding out more about leadership.

Formative Group: People that gather at GroupLink and do not have an approved leader to lead them. This should happen only when a leader is not available. They should spend 2-3 weeks sharing their stories and then select someone who they feel would be most qualified to go through the leader interview process.

Group Leader: The approved Community Group Leader is responsible for providing his/her group with vision, direction and support. The Group Leader reports to a Community Group Director (staff position).

re:group: An annual retreat for leaders, apprentices and assimilators.GroupLink: An event where people meet and connect with others in order to form a Community Group. Group Links occur four to five times a year.

S2: Skills development in a shared learning environment. Occurs once per year.

Six Leader Essentials: Six ideas that leaders should keep before them as they lead their group.

1. Think life change – Why we do groups.2. Cultivate relationships – How you lead a group.3. Promote participation – How you Lead a group.4. Replace yourself – How you intentionally apprentice.5. Provide care – How you handle tough situations.6. Influence – How you maximize impact

Singles Labor Day Retreat (LDR): A retreat for the singles of NPMI, held over Labor Day weekend annually.

Starter Group: A starter group is a group that meets for 8 weeks to determine whether or not they want to stay together as a community group for an additional 10-17 months (for a total of 18 to 24 months).

Multiplication: At the end of the 18 to 24 month commitment, a Community Group splits to form two or more groups with new group members. This allows each Community Group Leader, apprentice and member to increase their influence.

Gro

up L

ife F

unda

men

tals

Page 26: Directors Orientation

pg. 50 pg. 51

Notes

Page 27: Directors Orientation