SMALL GROUP CO-ORDINATORS

Within Aldridge Parish Church there are now 13 small groups, formerly known as house groups, and the number is rising. Each group is different as might be expected when the Church is made up of such a diverse group of people. This being the case there is usually a group that would suit any one wishing to join one.

Alan and Gillian Winser act, on behalf of the Church, as small group co-ordinators. Their role is to support
the leaders of each group, to work with the rector in any problems that may occur in groups and
 to place people within the groups most appropriate to their needs and desires.

Below is our working definition of the nature of small groups, which gives a good indication of their,
and both Alan and Gillian’s and the Church’s, responsibility.

 
 












Alan & Gillian Winser

                                                    NATURE OF SMALL GROUPS AND ROLE OF LEADERS   Small Group Leaders - click here for pictures

1. DEFINITION:
    
   People who come together on a regular basis for a common purpose and are led by an identified leader who is assisting them in their walk with Christ by providing an environment for spiritual growth, caring and community with a view to group and/or members reaching out Aldridge and wider Society
    

2. NATURE OF GROUP:
    
   Should be up to 15 people meeting together including Leader and an identified apprentice Leader, and an open chair to welcome new people. If the group has more than 15 people meeting together, it should be preparing to create a new group with assistance of the co-ordinators.
    
   1. Groups will meet at least monthly but not meet in weeks when there is a central church meeting or when groups are suspended e.g. Lent.
   2. Group members will share responsibilities for Group activities, not leaving all to the Leader.
   3. Groups will need to look outwards as well as inwards, so for example, looking for ways to reach out to neighbourhood or Group’s friends and relatives and taking an active interest in caring and communicating with Mission Links.
   4. All groups would be expected to include the 4 Ws:  Welcome, worship, word and witness. Worship includes prayer.
   5. Groups members would be expected to care and support one another
       

3. ROLE OF LEADER
    
   1. Someone who is identified and approved by the Church leadership
   2. Having concern for the Group Member’s growth of faith in Christ and guiding the group through Bible study, relationships, experiences and practises where challenge and spiritual progress can be made
   3. Providing a place where each individual experiences a sense of identity and belonging and where people are being Christ to each other by knowing and being known, loving and being loved, serving and being served, celebration and being celebrated
   4. Ensuring the Group is outward looking, ready to take new members, looking for other appropriate means of outreach, and being prepared for growth and the creation of a new group as numbers increase.
   5. Oversee and assist an apprentice Leader within the Group with a view to them becoming proficient and confident to lead another group
   6. Being accountable to the co-ordinators and Rector.
       

4. ROLE OF CHURCH
    
   1. Provide guidance on Bible Study materials for use in Groups and other means of improving prayer, sharing etc.
   2. Provide training for Leaders and Apprentice Leaders
   3. Provide pastoral care for Leaders though the co-ordinators, Alan and Gillian. In doing this they will endeavour to meet with Leaders individually and visit Groups at least once a year.

Provide other support and encouragement as is necessary

If you are interested in joining a small group  -  please click here for an application form

Small Group Leaders - click here for pictures