NON-Negotiable’s
· One of the biggest non-negotiable’s to running a Circle is that we all need to be studying the same lessons, on the same weeks as all of the other Circles. We have a calendar and we need to stick with it. The purpose of that is that we all are growing at the same time, at the same pace. I know that sometimes a week is missed due to a cancellation and some circles fall behind. That’s why we suggest that you meet on an off week to make that session up. However, other than that, we must complete each week as it is listed in the calendar. Meaning if you didn’t finish Lesson 1, you shouldn’t continue it the next week unless you make sure that you cover the FULL scheduled lesson as well.
· Do not deviate from the Circles structure that has been laid out at the beginning. We allow time for food, fellowship, discussion and prayer. You guys are in charge of monitoring that flow. However, these small groups are intended for growing relationally and growing in the knowledge of God’s Word. It is not intended to be a church or revival service. I never want to stifle how the Holy Spirit moves however, being that this is a specialized setting, we need to remember what we are here for. Please keep in mind:
A. Circles isn’t the right setting for partaking in communion weekly or monthly. Not all of our members may be serving the Lord or are even saved. Scripture talks about the dangers of partaking in communion in an unworthily manner. For this reason, communion is not appropriate for Circles. We, as a church body, partake in communion on every 1st Sunday of each month. It is your right to take Communion when ever you want in your own private time, however it is not appropriate for our Circle setting.
B. Circles isn’t the right setting for imparting spiritual gifts or learning how to operate in the spirit. (Unless the curriculum covers that topic) We must be very intentional to be focused on what we are here to accomplish. That is to grow in the knowledge of God’s word (through our study curriculum) and to grow relationally (through our interactions). This topic is so sensitive and delicate that we can open doors (the wrong way) if we aren’t careful. Because if this, our Circles is not the proper setting for this type of spiritual interaction.
C. If you have any ideas to inject something other than that which is in the curriculum, please reach out to me directly so we can have a conversation. I need to be kept in the loop because ultimately I am responsible for what goes on in our Circles. Please run any changes in schedule, approach, or extras by me to make sure that they fall in line with our standards.
D. DO NOT endorse or teach any doctrine that goes against what we believe as a church. This is a major problem that can cause confusion and division. If you are unclear what we believe as a church, please reach out to me and I will give you any info you need. There are also other resources such Growth Track and the church website that can shed light on our doctrinal stance. If you don’t fully agree on something, that is your right and my door is always open for a conversation, however, do not teach on the subject if it goes against what we believe as a church. Do not even broach the topic. If you are against what we believe as a church, then leading a circle at Oasis is not a proper fit for you.
E. Outreaches are great and I love when our Circles are active in the community however, there is a proper protocol that is in place for Oasis regarding outreaches. If your circles want to get involved with outreach, please reach out to Ada and Angel Cardona first.
These are the proper protocols that are required to run a Circle. We fully expect everyone who leads a Circle to adhere to these items listed above. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me at any time.
These protocols are in place to keep unity with the body and avoid dangerous situations. Please click the check mark below to acknowledge that you agree with these statements and will comply. We never want to remove leaders, however this is so important that if any of these protocols are violated, we reserve the right to remove/replace said leader and or close that particular Circle. Thank you all for understanding and your willingness to serve at Oasis.