What is it?
As the name indicates, the conversation aims to be a sincere and open debate about small groups in Multicultural Family Church and their efficiency in fulfilling our mission, which is "to make authentic disciples of Jesus who make disciples of others."
How will it be carried out? Description of the dynamics.
During the upcoming three Refocusing meetings (scheduled for the fourth Wednesday of each month), we'll gather at round tables, organized into assigned groups, and share a meal together. This arrangement aims to accommodate those coming straight from work, allowing everyone to enjoy dinner or a snack during the meeting. Additionally, this seating arrangement mirrors the dynamics of small groups, which are central to our conversation. Following the meal, we'll transition into an open discussion. While Pastors Alain and Aubrey will guide the conversation, it will be inclusive, providing an opportunity for everyone to listen and contribute. Please come prepared to engage in a dialogue about the effectiveness of our church's methodology for small groups in fostering discipleship. We've chosen to incorporate this discussion into the Refocusing meetings to streamline our schedule and avoid adding another commitment. Given that all leaders in our church are required to participate in a small group, it's essential for everyone to attend, creating an ideal environment for this conversation.
Table leaders have been assigned with the responsibility of organizing what each person would bring to share with the rest of their table. Just to offer some security, especially if someone who was supposed to bring something doesn't bring it; Pastor Alain will be bringing something he has cooked, enough for more than one table, so if someone comes without dinner, they can be reassured, there should be enough. Please, if you were invited to these conversations, whether you bring something or not, please come; don't let that be an obstacle.
Who should attend?
By requirement, all active leaders in our church. If you are a leader, you normally come to the refocusing meeting. If you were a leader before but currently are not, no matter if you were a leader of a ministry or a small group, and you receive the invitation, that means that your opinion about the groups and their efficiency in fulfilling the mission of our church is important to me as a senior Pastor. Therefore, I would greatly appreciate it if you set aside time to come during the next three meetings where we will have the conversation. If you want to come with your husband or wife, of course, they will be welcome.
If you received the invitation (and possibly many that I missed but are also candidates for this "conversation") and you have never been a leader in our church, that means that we have seen leadership qualities in you and your opinion matters to us. In no way does your attendance during "the conversation" (next three refocusing meetings) imply or mean that you are already a leader or that your attendance is required or expected at future refocusing meetings. We appreciate and value your opinion.
When and where?
April 24th, May 22, and June 26 at 6:00 PM in the multipurpose room of the church.
Why?
- This approach has been selected by Pastors Alain and Aubrey to foster attentive listening.
- A significant portion of our church community has experienced small groups but opted out, suggesting a need for correction. Additionally, there are individuals who have refrained from participation based on feedback from fellow members.
- Given the importance of this aspect for our church, we are compelled to exert maximum effort to ensure its success and optimize efficiency.
What will happen next?
- Let's commit to fervent prayer for this endeavor.
- Following our listening phase, Pastors Alain and Aubrey will dedicate time to prayer, reflection, and crafting a plan to enhance our effectiveness in fulfilling our mission through small groups. This plan will undergo review and refinement by the elders before a decision is announced.
- Please understand that the decision reached by Pastors Alain and Aubrey and the elders may not address all your concerns comprehensively. Our primary aim is to listen attentively. We will pursue what is deemed best, most productive, and efficient, considering the collective welfare rather than individual preferences.
- Execution of the plan will present challenges, yet it is crucial. We will establish accountability measures and implement necessary processes to ensure adherence and receive ongoing feedback, thus fostering sustainability and efficiency in our actions.
- Membership in a small group will be a prerequisite for holding any leadership role or influence within Multicultural Family Church. Our commitment lies in ensuring this requirement is upheld, ensuring all leaders are actively engaged in a small group setting.
