FORMATION GROUPS
FORMATION GROUP FAQ
Thank you for your interest in Formation Groups. I am so excited about these groups and what I believe God will be doing through them!
WHAT ARE FORMATION GROUPS?
Formation Groups are small groups of 3-4 individuals of the same gender who commit to meeting with one another weekly to study scripture, build relationships, offer accountability and encouragement, and pray. There is no hierarchy of one designated leader; rather, it is a shared responsibility.
HOW ARE FORMATION GROUPS FORMED?
Ideally, your Formation Group will comprise people with whom you are already in a relationship. If those in your existing circles of relationship do not want to be apart of a group, we will prayerfully place you in a group where we think you will find a meaningful connection.
WHEN DO FORMATION GROUPS MEET?
Participants of each group will mutually agree to a time and place for their gathering. Each group should meet for 60-90 minutes each week.
WILL ALL FORMATION GROUPS BE WORKING THROUGH THE SAME MATERIAL?
All Formation Groups will begin their groups by working through spiritual biographies. This will be followed up by the study, “Trust and Follow Jesus: Conversations to Fuel Discipleship.” After that study, Formation Groups will pivot to studying various books of the Bible that their group chooses. Resources will be available to aid in study, and a weekly touchpoint will be sent to all groups to further conversation, accountability, confession, and a focus on spiritual rhythms
WHAT SUPPORT IS THERE FOR FORMATION GROUPS?
Area 10 Faith Community is committed to providing resources for study methods, prayer, encouragement, and accountability. We are also committed to relational and pastoral support for those instances when stressors may arise within the group. For any support needs, please email Topher@area10church.com.
HOW ARE FORMATION GROUPS DIFFERENT THAN SMALL GROUPS?
Formation Groups exist to allow for more intentional study, encouragement, and accountability than can happen in a traditional small group format. Formation Groups are not a replacement for traditional small groups; instead, they are an extension of them and focus more deeply on discipleship and spiritual formation. Formation Groups fit into the broader Discipleship Ministry of AREA 10 FAITH COMMUNITY by allowing for a level of vulnerability and depth that may not always be possible in other forms of groups or personal study.
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO BE APART OF A FORMATION GROUP?
There are only two things required of anyone in a Formation Groups:
Commitment - Each Formation Group is based on a desire to grow in Christ as well as a shared commitment to one another. Because of this, we ask all participants to read and sign a "Formation Covenant."
Time - As a part of your commitment to a Formation Group, you are committing to meeting weekly, as well as carving out time five days a week for personal study, reflection, and formative spiritual disciplines.
WHAT ARE MY NEXT STEPS?
- Put your group together - Talk with people in your circles whom you know may want to go deeper in their relationship with Christ. Identify which day, what time, and if you will meet in person, online, or a mixture of the two. Once your group is solidified, please fill out this form. This will allow us to provide follow-up, resources, etc.
- Ask to be placed in a group - If you need help finding a group, email Topher at Topher@area10church, and he will follow up with you to gather information to ensure a good fit with a group.