The youth who attend Montreat Youth & Middle School Conferences tell us that they love small group - a place where they can fit right in and share their journey of faith with their peers. They need outstanding Small Group Leaders (SGLs) to facilitate this important experience - perhaps it’s YOU they need!

Small Group Leaders (SGLs) are needed for Youth Conferences on-site at Montreat and for the Middle School Conference at Maryville College in Maryville, TN. Montreat Conference Center is committed to selecting a wide range of persons who:

• Are members of denominations that relate to the World Communion of Reformed Churches (see member churches at www.wcrc.ch)
• Are 21 years of age by the time the conference begins.
• Are experienced youth leaders (volunteer or professional).
• Value the experience our young people have - encountering God’s word, forming Christian community and growing in faith at Montreat - more than their own Small Group Leader experience.
• Will be available and fully present for the SGL training. (See Application for training times).
• Will abide by the SGL Covenant included with this application.

In general, the selection process of SGLs is composed of three major elements: 

1). The evaluation of experience working with youth
2). The assessment of prior teaching and group leadership
3). The recognition of an abiding Christian faith and prior service to the Church

Montreat staff work together to select SGLs that represent diverse geographical distribution, racial/ethnic diversity, and both paid and volunteer church leadership. We will work to fill Small Group Leadership in a way that reflects our commitment to diversity. In selecting Small Group Leaders, we take into account both the individual and the overall profile of a week’s leadership slate.

To apply, please fill out and submit the following SGL application.  

Once all positions have been filled, applicants will be placed on a waiting list. 

SGL manuals including complete details will be available closer to the conferences.

What is a Small Group Leader responsible for?

• Printing out your own copy of the Small Group Manual and preparing your lessons prior to arriving for training.
• Bringing a few specialty supplies (usually just a bluetooth speaker or way to play music) as requested by MRA staff or Conference Directors.
• Embracing the call and responsibility of serving as a Small Group Leader with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love.
• Agreeing to and abiding by the Small Group Leader Covenant included in this application.
• Covering costs of lodging, meals, and travel for children & family members. (Costs must be paid prior to your arrival. Family housing is given on a space available basis and won’t be made until two weeks prior to the conference.)

What is Montreat Conference Center responsible for?

• Covering the costs of the SGL’s travel according to the Montreat Conference Center travel policy (you will be given a copy of the policy if selected).
• Housing and meals during the conference in Montreat housing.  SGLs are typically assigned a roommate. You can also stay with your back home group and receive a per diem.
• All supplies for the Small Group experience (except occasional exceptions listed above).
• Preparing the Small Group Manual and providing a pdf to SGLs, including review and training on said manual. 
• Covering the cost of the required background check.
• Covering costs of childcare during childcare hours (Montreat site only).

To be filled out by all applicants

I understand that Montreat Conference Center will contact my current pastor, church educator, or presbytery executive for a reference. Please let this person know that you have listed them as a reference.

I have read the Small Group Leader Covenant and understand that I will be expected to abide by it. By signing, I agree to abide by the SGL Covenant and the SGL Expectations & Requirements.