Steps to Starting a Small Group
(It is not necessary to complete this application if we already have one on file, but if you're unsure, go ahead and complete it again.)
We really believe what we teach at Harvest is incredibly important. That means that we spend time training leaders so we are sure they understand who we are and how we do things before they begin leading. You application helps us to understand more about who you are and your current level of growth as a believer. It also makes sure that we have all of the correct contact information
*** Please Note ***
Official church membership is a prerequisite for teaching at Harvest. We are very strict with regard to this requirement. In order to be a member, you must attend a class (in person or online) then complete an application (online or in person). Regular attendance without the completion of an application and the class does not constitute membership regardless of how long you have been attending. If you are unsure of your membership status, contact Delores Eyer at (210) 490-2827.
2. Be Approved by the Division Leader to Lead
At Harvest, we believe in relational leadership. In order to facilitate this, each division manages its own leaders. In the LeadU office, we keep track of training and background checks and other administrative items, but we do not approve or disapprove leaders. Your leader will contact you and work out a time to meet with you. (This usually happens before you complete the leader app, but in case you are thinking about leading and have not talked with that division leader, this will be handled for you.)
3. Attend a Basic Grace Life Discipleship Class (In person or online)
Our Basic Grace Life Discipleship Class is designed to give you a firm understanding of exactly what the Grace Life is and how it applies to your leading at Harvest. Because there is a wide view of curriculum and options, we developed this course to help you make sure that you can filter any material through a Grace Life Lens. This course is available in person and will soon be available online. The course is four hours long and includes a workbook that you must complete.
This form will be completed each semester and keeps the administration of groups aware of any changes that are happening. The form helps guide you through questions like when you will meet, what curriculum you will use and how you plan to market your group. We will not begin to process the group until we receive the application.
*** A Note about curriculum ***
Our board of Elders requires us to use curriculum that has been approved. We have a general list of available curriculum that you can look at if you need it. If you would like to use a curriculum not listed, you must submit that curriculum to the appropriate division leader. If you wish to develop your own curriculum, you should have a pretty clear view of what and how you are going to teach. A complete outline as well as scope and sequence will be required when writing your own curriculum. (Often leaders will tell us that they will just be using the Bible. While this is ok, you will still need to submit an outline and scope and sequence.) Pastor Darrell can answer any questions regarding curriculum.
5. Discuss your group with the division leader
Your division leader will meet with you either on the phone or in person to line out any details not covered on the application. You can also get more information about the resources that are available to groups leaders.
6. Be approved to start by the Adult Ministry Team
Each semester, the Adult Ministry Team sets the schedule for groups during the next semester. The group bases its decision on availability, resources, and church needs. Please remember that we deal with a great number of requests and it may take some time for us to get things finalized.
7. Attend a Small Group Technical Training
Each semester, Pastor Darrell offers a short two week course for new leaders. This technical training covers topics such as group dynamics, leadership, and administrative duties. Training is required for new group leaders and available for others who wish for a refresher on things. Each month, the LeadU team will send out a short leadership message as well as a podcast designed to help you become the leader God desires.
As a part of the small group application, we will include your event in marketing efforts where appropriate. We have found however that most groups are successful because of the personal relationships rather than simple marketing. Simply put, you are the best person to advertise your group. Build relationships and don’t be afraid to talk about your group.
9. Complete a survey at the end of each semester.
Each semester we send out a short survey that is designed to help us keep fresh in leadership. Please complete the survey when you receive it. It really does help us make sure we are doing all we can do!
