Groups.
All you need to know for getting in a group and getting going
1.Think and pray about who
Don’t just get into a group with your best mates as a matter of course. Stop, ask God about it and think through the practicals: stage of life, location, personalities and so forth. Being with people who are different from you and who you don’t know very well already can be a great environment to be sharpened. Unity around Jesus in spite of difference is how we become more like Christ and not just create echoes of ourselves.
And remember, if you don’t know anyone yet who you could ask we recommend two things as a starter. First, try getting more involved in St Basil’s community life by joining a Home or serving on a team for example. Secondly, drop us a line and let us know you’d like to join a group, we have a number of people in the same boat and we may be able to link you up.
2. Be courageous and ask
Let’s be honest: none of us like rejection! And the possibility of someone saying “no” or “I’m already in a group” can feel a bit intimidating and hold us back. But our encouragement is to ask God to give you the courage and embrace the vulnerability. It’s worth it in order to form a community who will contend for one another.
3. Let us know
If you’ve got yourself into a group of three or four people, please let us know who is in your group. That way we can keep you updated on information and resources and pray for your group. Just fill in the form below with the names of those in the group.
4. Pick up your journals
We’ve created year-long Pattern journals to help you share your story and track your journey as you practice the shared rhythms. You can buy a pack of 4 for £10 below and then pick them up from us at church. This is a voluntary donation to help cover the costs of producing them (we won’t make a profit!). Or just let us know if that’s too much and you can have them for free!
Now you can get going on the adventure together!
A year long journal to help you articulate your story and make notes on your journey as you pursue maturity in Christ in your group
5. Come to a “Lift Off”
Patter Group “Lift Offs” are short 45-minute equipping events for those who have got into a group and want to get started. They take place after church on a Sunday and are a great chance to hear the key thinking behind Pattern, how they work, top tips for thriving and to ask any questions that will help you get going as a group. You will be able to buy journals here if you want them.
The next “lift off” is TBC.
“When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up – one on one side, one on the other – so that his hands remained steady till sunset.”
— Exodus 17:12