Before You Get Started
Make sure you’ve filled out the following form to let your Community Pastor know you’re interested in becoming a LifeGroup Leader:
Our Vision for LifeGroups
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV
We were created to live within the power of community; it’s who we are. And it’s in the context of these trusted relationships that life change often happens. This means LifeGroups are an invaluable space for people to grow closer to God and others.
We believe LifeGroups are the heartbeat of our church because they help people share their lives, grow spiritually together, and encourage one another through the highs and lows of life. Every LifeGroup is unique because each group is shaped by the vision and direction God has given the leader.
Your Role as a LifeGroup Leader
As you step into leading a LifeGroup, you are playing a key role in creating a space for life-changing relationships to form. You get to determine the vision and direction for your group and facilitate conversations that help people grow closer to God and others.
You might feel like you need to have all the answers or know the “right” things. The reality is that you don’t have to have it all figured out.
Pastor Craig reminds us that, “People would rather follow a leader who is always real versus a leader who is always right.”
Types of LifeGroups
LifeGroups foster spiritual growth and connection over a shared interest, topic, or passion. There are different types of LifeGroups for you to consider as you step into leading yours.
Some groups are open to everyone, while other categories are focused on seasons of life, such as Women’s, Men’s, Married, and Young Adults. Some groups focus on caring for our neighbors or establishing mentoring relationships.
You can find additional tips and guidelines for specific groups using the links below:
- Guidance for LifeGroups with Children
- Guidance for Neighbor Groups
- Guidance for Mentor Groups
- Guidance for Digital Groups
Remember: No matter what type of group you lead, the vision and direction are set by you—the leader!
The Role of Your LifeGroups Coach
Every LifeGroup Leader has the support of a LifeGroups Coach. This person walks alongside you as you start your group, supports you as you lead, and helps you grow spiritually. They’ll connect with you on a regular basis to check in on you, pray with you, and hear how your LifeGroup is going.
Getting Started
As you step into your role as a LifeGroup Leader, here are a few best practices to talk through with your LifeGroups Coach.
S-H-A-R-E
The following acronym can help you remember the guiding principles for leading a LifeGroup and set you up for success.
Step into the game. We learn best by diving in and learning along the way.
- Explore the “Resources” tab at www.life.church/lifegroups to find articles with tips, plans, and resources to help you grow as a leader.
- Ask your coach about development tools you can use to own your personal growth and leadership development.
Have a plan. It’s important to have a vision and plan as you get started.
- Define your vision by completing your LifeGroup Vision and Plan. If you’re leading a Neighbor Group, check out this resource.
- Find time to share your plan with your LifeGroups Coach.
Ask people you know first. As you’re getting started, it’s important to consider who you’ll invite. Start with the people you already know and then invite others to join in. For example:
- Your friends
- Your coworkers
- People who live nearby or who have similar interests
Relate to people. Community happens when people spend time together. Relationships happen when people feel needed, known, and loved. Relate to people this way, and lives will be changed forever.
Enjoy your connection with your coach. It’s easier to navigate tricky seasons and difficult situations (and celebrate good times) when you already have an established relationship with your coach. Consider how your coach can best support you and share your thoughts with them.
Growing Your Group
As your LifeGroup gets started, here are a few different ways people will find your group.
- Online through the LifeGroups Search Tool
- Personal invitations from you and others (like your LifeGroups Coach or Community Pastor)
- Weekend conversations at the Get Connected Space or in the lobby
When someone shows interest in your group, please contact them and share more about your group within 48 hours.
It can be intimidating to reach out and express interest in a LifeGroup, so consider acknowledging this bold step of faith when you reach out. Prioritize connecting quickly and intentionally with people interested in your group.
You can find contact information and manage other details related to your LifeGroup at: my.life.church
Your Next Steps
- Submit a Volunteer Application. Make sure you’ve filled out the form to let your Community Pastor know that you’re interested in becoming a LifeGroup Leader.
- Complete any unfinished leader requirements: You may have already completed or be in the process of completing these requirements. You can check your progress in the Life.Church app or by connecting with your Community Team.
- Watch the LifeGroup Leader Training Videos: www.go2.lc/trainingvideos
- Spend time exploring www.life.church/lifegroups and my.life.church
- If you already have some friends who are interested in joining your LifeGroup, practice adding them to your my.life.church roster.
- Decide when you and your coach will connect again.
- Give yourself a high five and start leading an awesome LifeGroup!
Thank you for stepping up to lead as a LifeGroup Leader. We can’t wait to hear how God moves in and through your group!
