LifeCycles Congregational Membership

LifeCycles is based upon the understanding that all Christians are called to, and commissioned by, baptism for participation in Christ's ministry in the world and in the church. Working through small groups, LifeCycles aims to empower all members to realize their God-given gifts and so become ever more active, articulate apostles at work in God's world, and to transform congregations to become vital, ministering communities.

In most cases, LifeCycles is used as the formation process for mutual ministry teams which will provide the primary pastoral leadership in congregations. Some members of the congregation will be ordained, others will be commissioned for leadership ministries within the congregation while others will be sent forth to carry out their ministries in their daily lives.

LifeCycles participants are excited by this small group process that:

• supports them in doing ministry
• introduces them to creative liturgy
• invites them into a deeper spiritual life
• engages them in studying the Scriptures and theology
• offers them knowledge and skills for Christian living
• gives them practical help in leading congregations

LifeCycles groups usually meet weekly for 1 1/2 to 2 hours; some groups meet less frequently for longer timeframe and may cover two sessions per meeting. The group members take turns providing worship or session leadership or hospitality. The materials are organized in units of six sessions each -- each session includes worship, the reading material and discussion questions, group activities. Each unit introduces an academic skill, a prayer method and/or a leadership skill that is practiced during that unit. Specific issues, skills or topics are address in the Practicing Theology Units which can be any number of session and can be used when the group chooses.

The assumption is that the group will never "finish" as long as they are providing congregational leadership -- the program is designed to allow groups to return to same session, select different activities and dig deeper into the recommended readings. These units also can be used by other groups in the congregation and may serve as an entry point for new group members.

Price: This program is offered as a membership with an annual congregational membership fee based on your Average Sunday Attendance (ASA). See the pricing chart by clicking on the blue button at the top of the page. A congregation is asked to make an intial three-year commitment - we have found that this commiment helps ensure success. A diocesan membership is required to obtain access to the training components of this program as this work is under the direction of the bishop and Commission on Ministry. All materials are downloadable PDF files (WORD files are available if you choose to edit the materials).

Training: We have trainers who can help you get started. Contact us for more information.

Companions (mentors): Training is provided (strongly recommended but not required) for those who will serve as Companions for LifeCycles groups. Each congregation and diocese sets its own norms for identifying, selecting and training Companions. We have provided templates you can download and adapt for your own use. Companion Application. A Companion Manual is also available to assist in assessing and/or starting:LifeCycles for your congregation: Companion Manual.

Diocesan Membership: To learn more about the diocesan membership see the LifeCycles Diocesan Membership.

NOTE: If your congregation and/or diocese is not pursuing mutual ministry but you want a comparable program of adult faith formation, the content of this program is incorporated into the Journey in Faith which is available for congregations, organization or for groups of six or more individuals who constitute themselves as a group.

Brochure

Overview