Generally, it is too much of a leap to move directly from the Big Circle to the Small Circle.

So, the CRITICAL bridge in the SHIFT map is the MID CIRCLE -- we describe it as “MID” because it is not an end unto itself - it is a vehicle: a means to an end; it is a critical piece for navigating from the Big Circle to the Small Circle.

The MID CIRCLE at SHIFT is called an...@GROUP (as you’ll see below).

This movement was the major focus of Jesus’ ministry during his earthly life.

“Now when Jesus had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about the parable...” ~ Mark 7:17.

As you know, the @ symbol indicates a specific time and place: @ your house @ 7:00, for example. An @Group is a small group that serves as a “means to an end” where, typically, no more than 12 people meet @ a house, @ a coffee shop, @...wherever, to “pull up a chair” in an intentional group.

TACTIC: We stay together indefinitely to cultivate a stable environment for authentic relationships.

6 REASONS FOR @GROUPS

1. Shared Passions and Interests

Just showing up with shared passions and interests fuels an automatic synergy with each other. A natural synergy is ignited when people come together with a common focus.

2. Incubator for starting small circle relationships

Since the Mid Circle is a means to an end, @Groups meet only every other week to leave space for Small Circle (Close) relationships to develop during the off-weeks.

3. Deeper, more thorough study and conversation

The weekend messages form the basis for conversations in the @Groups. This approach allows for interactive discussions as we dig deeper in the Scripture passages used.

4. The Hub from which the most effective ministry stems

All ministry within the 4 walls and outside in the community is channeled through @Groups. This is where the action is! It is also the central avenue for communication within the church.

5. Developing relational Intelligence

We learn how to relate with others, how to have community, so that we can help catalyze personal spiritual transformation in each other.

6. Learning how to be

In our world today, we are told to DO DO DO! So often it’s hard to learn how to BE, understanding our true identity in Christ, THEN learning to live out that identity.