A Year of Transitional Grace for Redeemer's Grow Groups
Introduction: Setting the Context
In my last blog post about the refinements to our Grow Groups, I felt a pressing need to share my heart on this crucial subject. I fully recognize the emotional and relational complexities of sharpening our vision. This is especially true when it involves the close-knit relationships that make our Grow Groups so vital. As such, I am calling this year of Covenant Partnership a "Year of Transitional Grace" to navigate these refinements together.
The Challenge and the Promise: Sharpening Our Vision
Sharpening our vision is not an undertaking we approach lightly—it is spiritually weighty. While the introduction touched on this, it bears repeating for emphasis: I recognize that refining our vision can deeply impact the relational dynamics we've grown to cherish. That's why we've marked this year as a "Year of Transitional Grace," a period dedicated to living out our new Grow Group structure while upholding the integrity of our current church relationships.
New Leadership Dynamics: Clarifying Our Vision Through Deacons
As part of our vision refinement, each Grow Group will now be co-led by two Deacons. These Deacons are not merely servant-leaders; they are culture shapers within Redeemer Church, embodying what it means to live out all of Christ for all of life. Their co-leadership is designed to cultivate that same culture within each Grow Group, helping us live out our values more faithfully. We desire for the lives of the Deacons to multiply into the lives of those in their Grow Groups. "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1)
What This Means for You: The Fruit of Vision Refinement
So, if the pace of these refinements feels too quick, rest assured that you can take it slowly. Whether you opt to adopt the new practices within your existing Grow Groups or take time to transition, that's perfectly fine. This is a Year of Grace. While we firmly believe these refinements will be spiritually enriching for all of Redeemer Church, we understand if you need to adopt or transition at your group's pace as the whole church aligns itself with our sharpened discipleship pathway.
Our Supportive Walk Together: Covered by Grace
In the meantime, our Deacons will serve as faithful architects of our Discipleship Trellis, guiding us in the way of Jesus at Redeemer Church. Again, if the pace of transition feels overwhelming, know that you can expect compassion and grace from both me and your Redeemer family. We commit to extending unprecedented love and grace as we navigate this year together.
Conclusion: United in Vision and Grace
As you consider the proper steps for your Grow Group, remember we are united as a Gospel-Centered Disciple Making Family, and we trust God's grace to guide us in every step we take.
