What is a CARE Group?
A CARE Group (Christ-Like Actions Reaching Everyone) is a small group of individuals who meet weekly in homes for the purpose of developing spiritual maturity and Christian growth through Bible study, fellowship, prayer, evangelism and outreach. The scriptural reference is Acts 5:42: They met day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house. They never stopped teaching and proclaiming the Good News that Jesus is the Christ. (NIV)
How many CARE Groups do we have at New Salem?
As of August 15, 2009 we had 60 groups registered.
I want to start a CARE Group. What do I need to do?
First step: pick up a copy of “A Guide to Getting Started with Groups” and “An informational guide for CARE Groups” These two brochures will give you valuable information about groups.
Next step: Get trained as a shepherd leader. Simply contact Charlotte Wood, CARE Group Coordinator. She will ask you a few qualifying questions then the two of you will set a date to start the process for getting equipped as a shepherd leader. Training is usually conducted once per quarter or as needed. Remember you must be a New Salem member to be a shepherd leader or apprentice.
Who can be members of CARE Groups what is required of them?
Anyone may be a participating group member, regardless of membership status or church affiliation. Each group is formed & takes shape based on the common needs and interests of individuals. We ask all group members to:
1 Commit to weekly attendance
2 Communicate openly and honestly
3 Contribute to the Group by studying, sharing and participating
Why do groups meet every week?
First of all, Pastor gave us the charge to meet weekly. Meeting regularly fosters the opportunity for bible study, fellowship, accountability, connecting and caring for one another consistently. This promotes spiritual maturity. We understand that there will be times when a member will be absent. Yet, if a group starts out meeting only twice a month and a member misses one meeting, then what? It may be another month before he/she connects with the group again. There’s a lot of ‘life’ that happens within a month.
What is the purpose of registering online?
The online registration process is a tool that helps us identify what groups exist and the types of groups that are available for New Salem members and guests. It is a simple, straightforward process that takes less than 5 minutes to complete. You will be asked to provide your group name, contact information, group type, a purpose statement and meeting information. We will then create your group’s individual ministry card and provide direct support and communication to the group leader.
At the beginning of each new year, we ask all new and existing groups to register using the 2009 CARE Group Registration online form. Open registration is usually mid December through February. The online form remains active on the New Salem website throughout the year. Therefore, any newly groups should register using this online form.
I have been leading a group for several months but don’t seem to be fully informed on what is happening in this ministry. Are there meetings/information sessions I should be attending?
Every other month we have a Shepherd leader huddle meeting. All groups are to be represented at the huddle meetings. We share ideas, challenges, present training, have guest presenters and more. It is a place where leaders can receive support and encouragement. The remaining meeting dates for the current year are September 22, and November 17, 2009 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Last year we focused on spiritual health and maturity. What is our emphasis in 2009?
Achieving and maintaining a healthy, balanced purposed driven group is foundational for our CARE Group Ministry and will remain a priority. Each group includes fellowship (Membership) growing in Christ (Maturity) worship (Magnification) serving other believers (Ministry) and serving community (Missions). We are very intentional about identifying and training a person in each group who will champion each purpose in the group. In our CARE Group model everyone is a valued participant. New Salem CARE Groups meet weekly and are designed to be a mini version of the church. In this way the group responsibilities are shared and spiritually maturity is fostered.
In 2009 we are emphasizing that Bible learning is the most important educational component. Righteous living involves learning, knowing, understanding and applying God’s word to our lives. We plan to provide greater support to leaders as we work towards building a support team of Shepherd Coaches who will be directly linked with 3 – 5 shepherd leaders.
We are committed to referring anyone/everyone who is interested to a CARE Group. We have had groups at New Salem for more than 10 years. Our experience groups have proven that a CARE Group serves as an extended family for its members. If you are willing to try Group life, we are here to help you. Experience has taught us that in a CARE Group you will receive “More Grace and Care Than Anywhere.”
I really would like to join a CARE Group. What do I need to do?
Joining a group is easy.
1. You may complete the ‘Join a Group’ online form at www.newsalemcares.com
2. Check out the CARE Group display in the foyer for a listing of groups and contact information.
3. Contact Charlotte Wood, CARE Group Coordinator
Got more questions? Contact Charlotte Wood at 614-930-2224 or email cwood@newsalemcares.com
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