Purpose

The purpose of the Small Groups Policy is to ensure all members of St. James the Less Church have the opportunity to participate in small groups conducive to personal spiritual growth. 

Scope

This policy applies to all members of St. James the Less Church.

Policy Statement

·        A small group is defined as any group of six to ten people meeting on a regular basis (at a minimum monthly, preferably weekly or bi-weekly) either in the church facility, in a member’s home, or elsewhere (e.g. breakfast at restaurant) to glorify Jesus Christ in word, deed, or song.

·        The Church will periodically (“regularly”?) promote the importance of participation in small groups through relevant Bible teaching and/or meetings (e.g dinner to educate and encourage small group participation through initiating and developing friendships).

·        In initiating a small group, the prospective small group leader/facilitator and Rector will work together in order to determine the content, format, duration, and frequency defining the small group.

·        Any small group leader/facilitator must be a born-again believer and wholeheartedly committed to his or her relationship with Jesus Christ (ref I Timothy 3:1-13).

·        In order to preserve the unity and chemistry of the group, new members should not be allowed to enter the group once the group is past its initial stage (how defined?  Subject to reasonable judgment of….leader?)

·        The fundamental values of each group should be mutual love, acceptance, accountability, openness, honesty, kindness, forgiveness, sacrifice, confidentiality, admonition, compassion, gentleness, patience, humility, and encouragement.

·        Any persistent offensive behaviour, words, attitudes etc. should be dealt with according to Biblical repentance and forgiveness:  the offended should seek restoration with the offender; if then necessary, the offended and an accompanying witness should seek restoration with the offender; if then necessary, the church (or group as a whole?) should seek restoration with the offender.  (I’m not comfortable with the “offender” terminology, but just so I have the idea down at this point.)

Appendices