SMALL GROUP GUIDELINES
1. RESPECT
We will respect ourselves, each other, this place,
and this time.
2. SAFE GROUP
This small group is our family. We don’t put down, make jokes, or share sensitive information outside this group. What is said in this space stays in this space (with the exception of sharing with your parents... that is encouraged).
3. NO CROSSTALK
No talking over each other and no side conversations. It’s rude. We value what people have to say, so we listen when others speak.
4. NO PHONES
Phones are a distraction from people. This is people time. The phones are put aside every week.
5. LISTEN
Listening means being quiet, but it also means more than that. Listen to hear what is being said. Listen to learn and help others.
6. USE "I" STATEMENTS
It’s easy to talk about the issues of others, but for our group, we will put ourselves on the table.
“I” “me” NOT “them” “they” “you” “us”
7. FIGHT FOR RELATIONSHIP
God made us to be in relationship. We literally NEED it. You need it. We need it. In this group we will fight to make that happen. That means we work through conflict instead of ignore it. We say tough stuff in love when someone needs to hear it, and we put our selfishness aside to help and serve others.
7 BEST PRACTICES
1. Circles over Rows. Life Change Happens in Circles not Rows.
2. Take Attendance. Every student matters.
3. Go over Guidelines. They set expectations and create a safe place. These are NOT rules. They GUIDE safe conversations.
4. Prepare for Group. Prepare your heart by praying for your students as well as look over the lesson prior to group.
5. Ask Questions Before Giving Answers. By asking questions we are helping them process. When we give answers, we are actually stunting their growth.
6. Fight FOR Relationship. Relationships are hard and don’t always come naturally. We have to fight for them. Look for opportunities to connect with students relationally inside and outside of group.
7. Celebrate! What’s celebrated gets repeated. When someone takes a next step in their faith journey (even if it seems small), celebrate with them and with your team!