Men's Core Groups Info

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What is a Men’s Core Group?

Men’s Core Groups are deep communities for brothers in which friendship is the foundation, where discipleship happens naturally and men thrive spiritually, emotionally and physically. Men's Core Groups are part of Bethel’s Men’s Ministry and Community Life Ministry.

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What happens in a Core Group?

Men’s Core Groups focus on developing friendships and living out lives that follow Jesus. Some groups may also gather around a specific focus, and others may dive into studies for a season. Each group is a place where men can talk openly about the deep issues of life. While it sounds serious, and it often is, there is usually a lot of laughter!

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How long do Core Groups last?

Some groups may last for a semester or two, others may go longer. How long they last is decided by the men in the group. We encourage men to be faithful in attendance during the season they are committed to being part of the group. As with many things in life, we receive value from these groups in proportion to our participation.

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How big are Core Groups?

Group size is decided by each group. Most groups are 8-10 men. 

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What is the age of men in Core Groups? 

Each group is different. Most are mixed-age groups, but a few are seniors or young men. We recommend groups with mixed ages.

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When and how often do Core Groups meet?

Meeting frequency, days of the week, and meetup times are decided by the individual group. Most core groups meet weekly.

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How do I join a Men’s Core Group?

• Click here to see groups that are currently open.
• ‍Click here to let us know you are interested and want to be on the email list.
• Please note that these groups are for men in the Bethel community. If you are part of another church family and would like to see men’s core groups there, please contact us at the email address below. We encourage you to make direct contact with one or more group leaders and ask about the group(s), and don’t hesitate to visit multiple groups to find one that fits you best. If you don’t see a group right away that fits, register here to be contacted as space is available and new groups form.

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What are Men’s Core Groups NOT?

• We do not meet to fix one another, but rather encourage and edify one another as the Lord works in us individually and together.
• Our groups are not studies, although we often refer to the Word, and some groups may focus for a time on parts of the Bible or other Christian materials. We intend to be disciples who experientially know the Lord, rather than men who only know about Him.
• We are not looking to find sin in one another, but rather, we look for gold. We call forth that gold as we grow in Christlikeness. We do not ignore sin, and we deal with it when it is an issue, but it is not our primary focus
• Core groups are not accountability groups, although individuals in the group might ask brothers to hold them accountable for something. We are more concerned about being accountable for positively using our gifts for the kingdom.

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CORE GROUP LEADERS

What does a Men’s Core Group leader do?

Leaders in this ministry are first of all servants. Our leaders serve by facilitating and maintaining a culture that nurtures a community of brothers who are following after the Lord. We look for leaders who can approach this with shepherding sensitivity and a welcoming heart. We also lead together: our leaders are relationally connected to one of our teams of core group leaders.

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How can I become a Men’s Core Group leader?

Think you might be interested? You can find more details on leading a group on our Leadership Interest Form. If after reading this material you think leadership may be right for you, complete the form and we will be in touch.