1. Creating Community: A Small Group Strategy Bob Mayfield Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma

2. Define a “Small Group”

3. Basic Idea behind “Create Community” ► Community should be a core value of the church ► Life change happens best in small groups ► Community does not just “happen” ► Community must be created

4. The Plan ► Meeting with every current SS or home group leader in a home ► “Create Community” plan emailed to all leaders one week in advance ► CC plan discussed with leaders and leader input is encouraged ► Leaders emerge from the meeting involved

5. The Plan ► Entire Bible study structure was “deconstructed” ► Every church member will be part of a LIFE Group ► Leaders meet 2 weeks later to “draft” their groups ► Groups are contacted by their leader

6. LIFE Group L – Learning I – Involving F – Fellowshipping E - Evangelizing

7. Purpose of Groups ► Bible study ► Fellowship ► Ministry ► Prayer ► Outreach

8. Expectations for LIFE Groups ► Groups will not exceed 12 people in enrollment, eight is preferred (smaller is better) ► The LIFE Group begins a new group when 12 people are reached ► Sunday morning groups will meet for fellowship once a month ► Leaders will complete an online weekly report (not a long one) of attendance, guests, persons contacted, evangelism, and ministry/prayer needs ► LIFE Groups will meet weekly ► Each LIFE Group will attempt to begin a new group within one year

9. Expectations for LIFE Leaders ► Facilitate discussion, don’t lecture ► Study and prepare ► Attend training ► Participate in LIFE leader meetings ► Organize your group ► Train a new LIFE leader ► Be aggressive in outreach and evangelism ► Strive to develop a family feel for your group

10. Questions