While we desire to be intentional about breeding this value, we want to resist the temptation to over-program and over-structure the
process. Indeed, structure is important, but when people, rather than programs, are involved, we envision the process being organic in
nature. Therefore, we desire not to over-structure systems, but to cultivate values and provide opportunities for God to be at work.
Ethos of resonate Community Groups:
We have several desires for the creation of the values and ethos of C-groups:
(1) We desire for the ethos of C-groups to be safe, learning communities where honesty is not only allowed, but encouraged and seen
as the norm.
(2) We desire for authentic wrestling with faith. We believe that many times questioning the answers is more important than answering
the questions. Therefore, creating a safe place where we can wrestle with God and faith and how that is lived out is essential to group
dynamics.
(3) We desire groups to learn to celebrate life together. resonate longs to see groups celebrate each other and what God is doing in
their lives, the lives of others and in the world in which we live. Parties, celebrations, and holidays, both planned and spontaneous, are
important elements of a God-honoring community.
(4) We desire – and expect - spiritual formation to occur. Sharing and living out each other’s stories together is important. However, this
is not simply a social club or a chance to hang out and catch up on one’s week. The purpose of resonate C-groups is that “Christ is
formed in us” (Galatians 4:19). We begin to ask questions such as, “As we look back over the past six/twelve months of our C-group,
how have we grown and been shaped by the life of Jesus both individually and as a group?”
(5) We desire for C-groups to meet on a regular weekly (or bi-weekly) basis. Living and growing together happens when people meet
regularly and often.
(6) We desire for C-groups to serve on a regular basis of at least once a month together. We cannot be fully obedient to Christ if we only
learn about God and His ways while refusing to actually live them out. Healthy C-groups will not be inwardly focused and self-serving,
but will have a others-minded approach and a heart for those in our community and around the world.
(7) We desire for C-groups to meet in people’s homes or in public places. All throughout Scripture we see that location is important to
God. The Church is here to serve the world, not us. Therefore, being in the world (but not of it) is important. Meeting in people’s homes
(living rooms, apartments, basements, etc) or in public places (restaurants, coffee shops, etc) is a significant element to growing
communities.
(8) We desire for C-groups to eat together. Many times in the gospels we find that Jesus loved and celebrated, cared and listened
around a table. Food was involved in the ministry of Jesus. We desire for those involved in a C-group to eat together before beginning
their time of reflection, growth and sharing.
(9) We desire C-groups to have Scripture and prayer as a high priority.
(10) We desire to see each C-group multiply by producing other C-groups over time. As each C-group grows
(11) We desire for C-groups to participate (if possible) in a time of worship through singing to start the evening (i.e. if someone in the
group knows how to play an instrument and can sing a few songs to open up).
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