What Is CCB? 

About Becoming a Successful Small Group Leader:

What are the requirements for becoming a group leader?

A. Leader must have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

B. Leader must complete the Small Group Leadership Application for approval.
C. Leader must complete Class 101 and be a member of The Pointe.
D. Leader must complete Leader Training and sign The Pointe’s Small Group Leadership Covenant.  For more information about becoming a small group leader, contact Joan-Marie Barcus, Director of Small Group Ministries at joanmarie@thepointega.com.

Do I need to be a "Bible Expert" to become a Small Group Host?
Definitely not! The most important things that you need are a desire to serve the members of your group and to grow in your own personal relationship with Jesus Christ. When you take this step of faith, through prayer, God's Holy Spirit will give you what you need to be an effective Host. The Pointe has a list of many video curriculums available that provide expert teaching to your small group. Your host responsibility is to facilitate the discussion around that teaching using provided resources.

How do I choose a study to lead?
We have a list of recommended studies for Small Group Ministry.  Many of these studies are DVD based, to allow group leaders to be facilitators of the discussion.  If a group would like to study a book that is not listed on our recommended list, the group leader should have the curriculum approved by the Director of Small Group Ministries or the Lead Pastor.

How does my group purchase the study materials?

Each person in the group is responsible for purchasing his/her own study materials.  Each group leader should provide his/her group with the title of the study in advance so that each participant can have time to order a book.  Some books can be ordered on-line, and others can be purchased at a local Christian bookstore.  Many times, LifeWay Christian Bookstore in Albany will order several copies of a book, if you call them in advance.  Some group leaders may even purchase several books in advance and allow group members to reimburse them.  Other leaders empower each individual to obtain a copy of the book.  Click here for a current listing of study materials.

How long should the average small group meeting last?
If you are starting a new group, you should choose the time and place that is convenient to you the leader, then people who can meet your schedule will be attracted to your group.  A typical small group meeting is one and a half to two hours. However, it is unique for each group, depending on the type of group, and should be worked out by agreement of the group members in the process of developing the Small Group Covenant that covers what will be done and how it will be done in your small group.

How should I handle it if someone wants to try another group?
Be understanding and encouraging!  We have found over time that people do move from one group to another. It is important that you let people have the ability and the flexibility to move to another group. It's important that the leaders understand that meeting the members' needs is the primary concern, even if it means they find another group. We encourage leaders to remember that not all people grow at the same rate, or have the same needs over time. It is healthy for people to seek a group that meets their needs at the time.

How do I raise up leaders?
This is a process where your group members can help and do small tasks and functions of your small group. Based on their giftedness, rotate leadership and have members lead a sub group. You can even choose a Group Coordinator, who can take prayer requests, email the group, and occasionally facilitate the discussions.  Hopefully, they will feel comfortable to facilitate their own group in the future, should they choose.  Encourage your Small Group Coordinator to attend one of The Pointe Small Group Leader Trainings so they can more effectively develop as leaders.