Small Groups

What For ? – Purpose
-	Where are you going? What do you hope will come out of this group?
-	Why are you doing it?  Do you see a need or is this a passion on your heart?
-	How does it fit in with the church? Will it pull resources or assist them?
-	Who will lead? Who will come?
-	Naming – should they all be called “Home”, “Small”, “Cell”, or “Fellowship” groups so that there is some unity of identification between them?

Types of Groups
-	Accountability , like Promise keepers
-	Family orientated, all ages (optional baby sitter available)
-	Special interest (worship, Rangers leaders, teachers, child care workers, etc.)
-	Youth or college focus
-	By geography

It’s important to set a course and renew it periodically. If left open ended, the group will loose focus and flavor.

Leader Training
-	Develop a FH manual
-	Small group leaders meet quarterly
-	A Contract – Have a printed sheet with Purpose, Goals and Reminders (see sample)
-	Serendipity materials (Lyman Coleman)  http://www.serendipityhouse.com
-	Alpha Ministries for evangelism  http://www.alphausa.org/

Study Material
-	Bible study with commentary/study guide questions
-	Pastor’s sermon topic with notes
-	Special interest topical (financial stewardship, 10 great dates)
-	Serendipity NIV New testament with guide questions ($7.95 to 2.95 used)
-	A/G quarterly material (like Mark Roman uses)
-	Have all home groups on same material/Bible study?

When and Where
-	Set regular time and place to meet including in homes and at the church 
-	Be aware of church scheduled events and avoid conflicts as much as possible
-	Be committed to as regular a schedule as possbile
-	Set semesters ? – to allow for transition between groups

The Cycle	how to open it up to others, grow together, and develop new cells
-	1st base - Getting started, kick off
-	2nd base - Getting to know each other
-	3rd base - Growing and developing friendship
-	Home – Outreach and start the cycle over again

Promote
-	Share praise reports, answers to pray
-	Prayer journal
-	Report back to Pastor and leaders