Care Groups
This is the #1 care ministry at Randolph Street Church. Every member is placed into a Member Care Group to ensure that all are properly cared for and served. To learn more about becoming a member at Randolph Street Church click here.
What are Member Care Groups (MCGs)?
MCGs are small groups of Randolph Street members that are overseen by our lay elders and deacons. Each MCG is assigned a deacon while lay elders oversee several MCGs. Simply put, MCGs ensure that every member of Randolph Street is being care for by other members. As we grow, these smaller groups become very important.
Why are MCGs important?
Member Care groups are the most important ministry at Randolph Street for two reasons: First, Jesus could not have been clearer about the necessity of His disciples demonstrating love toward one another in John 14:23. Loving one another is key to distinguishing ourselves as followers of Jesus Christ. So, if we are true Christians, we must demonstrate our love for one another through caring for one another. This is the pattern of the early church (Acts 2:44-45;3:34). Second, as we grow, if we do not have an organized manner for caring for our members then some will inevitably be overlooked. So, making each of our members responsible for a smaller group of other members ensures that all are cared for in this local church.
How are the MCGs divided?
Our elders are responsible for dividing the MCGs. The criteria for distributing our membership into MCGs include geography, relationships, age, etc. It is our goal to put together groups that can best serve one another.
How does a person join a MCG?
When a person becomes a member of Randolph Street they are placed into a MCG. Membership is a covenant commitment to serve and care for one another in the context of this local church. If you are not a member of RSC please join the next Starting Point Class (www.randolphonline.org/sp).
What are the primary responsibilities of an elder in a MCG?
Our lay elders primary shepherding ministry is found in our MCGs. Biblically, our elders are responsible for shepherding the flock of God among us. The MCGs provide an organized way for this to occur. Each lay elder is responsible for multiple groups and this is where they place their primary emphasis of shepherding.
What are the responsibilities of a deacon in a MCG?
Our deacons are primarily given to care ministry. This is expressed in their leadership over our MCGs. Our deacons have several primary responsibilities among many others in their MCG. First, they connect with all the members of their MCG to understand needs that may be present. Second, they serve as a coordinator to engage their whole MCG in meeting various physical needs that arise. Third, they communicate with their elders to help them best shepherd the MCG.
Why do MCGs change yearly?
Some could look at this as a negative but we see this as a positive. It is easy to get into a group and find a comfort zone. Our desires is for our members to care for different people in order to build more relationships. Also, as we grow, it is necessary to add new deacons which means we must reshuffle our MCGs.
Can I serve others outside my MCG?
Absolutely. We want our membership to look at MCGs as our minimal responsibility. MCGs do not limit you from caring for others outside your MCG. Care for as many people as you can, whenever you can as you care for MCG members. Do not let MCGs hinder relationships you already have but let them expand relationships with others.
Do CGs meet regularly?
In 2011 we have scheduled four opportunities for our MCGs to get together (on a quarterly basis). Our first Member Care Group gathering is scheduled for Sunday evening, February 13th at our Church facility (6:00-7:00pm). Everyone will meet in the auditorium for 10-15 minutes with our staff pastors, then break out to various classrooms for 30-40 minutes of Member Care Group interaction: learning names, sharing prayer requests, planning for emergencies, discussing service gifts/talents and getting to know others within your group. At 7:00pm we will meet back in the Welcome Center for refreshments and fellowship. Future meetings may take place elsewhere (at the deacon’s discretion); however, this first meeting will take place at the Church facility. Please bring your favorite dessert to share!
