“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s supper), and to prayer.” Acts 2:42 NLT
What Are Connect Groups?
Connect Groups are a gathering of 6-15 people who meet regularly for the purpose of fellowship, connection, and spiritual formation. These groups meet in homes, coffee shops, apartment buildings, online and anywhere people can gather. Connect Groups are designed to help each person grow in redwood faith with interconnected root systems. Most groups are “open” groups where first-time guests can be invited to any individual group session.
Each group has a leader (Connect Group Leader) who leads the group. The connect group leader will work with the local pastor in planning for the group. The connect group leader will 1) use the sermon discussion guide or choose the curriculum 2) plan group calendar (time & location on group finder), 3) lead the group discussion, 4) record attendance & communicate needs to pastoral staff, and 5) raise up more group leaders.
We base our Connect Group Settings on the relational circles we see in the New Testament. Jesus formed a relational circle of 12 disciples in the Gospels (Luke 6:13). The church of Jerusalem in the Book of Acts met in relational circles from house-to-house (Acts 2:46).
Connect Groups include the following elements:
1. Biblical Teaching – Word-Centered study and discussion
2. Fellowship – Relational and interactive environment
3. Sharing In Meals – Snacks, Food, Breaking Bread and/or Meals
4. Prayer – Seeking God and praying for each other
What is taught at Connect Group?
Connect Groups use the Sermon Discussion Guide or a prepared study that is selected from a pre-approved list of options.
The Sermon Discussion Guide is available year-round. Prepared studies happen during one of our three group terms during the year (Fall, Winter and Summer).
Connect Group Calendar (Terms)
A typical Connect Group term varies from 8-12 weeks in length with 4-6 week planned breaks in between. The beginning of a session launch is the ideal time to begin a group.
FALL – September thru December (12 weeks)
- Fall kickoff September 18th
- 4-5 week sermon series booklet
WINTER – January thru May (12 weeks + 4 – week mini spring)
- Winter kickoff January 15th
- 5 weeks of ALL church CAMPAIGN
- Mini spring Session April 23rd
- Summer Kickoff June 13th
- 8 weeks
- Online Study: 4-6 weeks – July 3rd
Anyone can HOST a group if they have:
➤ Heart for people
➤ Open their home or space
➤ Serve a few snacks
➤ Turn on a video
➤ If they can gather 5 people
Next Steps for Connect Group Leader
➤ All Connect Group Leaders will need to take Growth Track in order to lead a group (Leaders can attend simultaneously during campaigns).
➤ Leaders make a year long commitment, agree to leadership covenant, and pursue ongoing equipping.
➤ As your group multiples, become a coach and help equip your groups.
