GROUP LEADERS MANUAL
SOUL CHURCH
GROUPS
GROUP EQUIPPING LEADERS TO BUILD THRIVING, CHRIST-CENTRED COMMUNITIES SOUL CHURCH
LEADERS
MANUAL
Welcome to the SOUL Church Group Leaders Manual! Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or you’re a seasoned leader, this guide is designed to equip and empower you. At SOUL Church, groups are where church truly becomes family. In this manual, you’ll find guidance and clarity to help you lead a group with confidence and care. This manual is designed to be both a training tool and a referencere source. While it may not answer every question you encounter, it provides a solid foundation to help you get started and stay encouraged. If you ever feel unsure, your Hub Leader is your first point of contact for wisdom, support, and next steps.
WELCOME & VISION
INDEX
01
[01] OUR VISION FOR GROUPS
[02] GROUP LEADER EXPECTATIONS [03] THE HUB SYSTEM
[04] STARTING AND RUNNING A GROUP [05] CARING FOR PEOPLE
[06] SAFEGUARDING
OUR VISION FOR GROUPS
[07] ADMIN & COMMUNICATION [08] LEADER DEVELOPMENT [09] FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
LOVE IN ACTION LOVE IN ACTION LOVE IN ACTION
AT SOUL CHURCH, OUR MISSION IS LOVE IN ACTION – OUR GROUP'S MINISTRY IS ONE OF THE PRIMARY WAYS WE LIVE THAT OUT. GROUPS ARE NOT JUST AN OPTIONAL EXTRA, THEY ARE A CORE EXPRESSION OF WHO WE ARE AS A CHURCH. THROUGH SMALL GROUPS, WE TAKE THE LOVE OF CHRIST OFF THE PLATFORM AND INTO OUR HOMES, CAFÉS, SCHOOLS, AND LIVES.
OUR VISION FOR GROUPS FLOWS DIRECTLY FROM OUR FIVE CORE VALUES
CHRIST CENTRED
Groups help us fix our eyes on Jesus, through prayer, scripture, worship and conversation.
PEOPLE EMPOWERING
Every group is a place where people can grow in their gifts and take next steps in leadership.
LIFE GIVING
We create environments of joy, hope, fun and support where people feel refreshed and strengthened.
OUTWARD FOCUSED
We create space for newcomers, unchurched friends, and people far from God to belong.
SPIRIT OF EXCELLENCE We lead with integrity, care, and intentionality, doing our best to honour God in all things. Excellence is not about being perfect, but about bringing our best in every season and stewarding our groups as unto the Lord.
02
GROUP LEADER EXPECTATIONS
SPIRITUAL LIFE
CHURCH ENGAGEMENT
RELATIONAL INTEGRITY & LEADERSHIP CONDUCT
THEOLOGICAL ALIGNMENT & ACCOUNTABILITY “DO YOUR BEST TO PRESENT YOURSELF TO GOD AS ONE APPROVED, A WORKER WHO DOES NOT NEED TO BE ASHAMED AND WHO CORRECTLY HANDLES THE WORD OF TRUTH.” 2 TIMOTHY 2:15 [01] Stay aligned theologically with the beliefs and teaching of SOUL Church and live according to Biblical standards. For more detail, you can review our stated beliefs online at soulchurch.com/statement- of-belief . If you’re ever unsure about something theologically or pastorally, please don’t guess - reach out to your Hub Leader or the pastoral team for clarity. [02] Please avoid public commentary (in groups or online) on divisive or political issues. Our role is to point people to Jesus and His Kingdom above all else. If you’re ever in doubt—ask first.
“LET US NOT GIVE UP MEETING TOGETHER, AS SOME ARE IN THE HABIT OF DOING,BUT ENCOURAGING ONE ANOTHER.” HEBREWS 10:25 [01] Be planted: attend SOUL Church regularly and stay involved in church life [02] Attend leader training nights each term, which will be organised and delivered by your Hub Leader [03] Attend the Lead Like Jesus course, which runs during the SOUL Central terms. This course is highly recommended for all new leaders as it helps establish the heart, habits, and mindset of servant leadership. Existing leaders are also welcome to attend if they would find it helpful for refreshing or further development [04] Lead or co-lead a group consistently during term times.
BEING A GROUP LEADER IS MORE ABOUT WHO YOU ARE THAN WHAT YOU DO. “REMAIN IN ME, AS I ALSO REMAIN IN YOU. NO BRANCH CAN BEAR FRUIT BY ITSELF; IT MUST REMAIN IN THE VINE.” JOHN 15:4
“WHATEVER HAPPENS, CONDUCT YOURSELVES IN A MANNER WORTHY OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST.” PHILIPPIANS 1:27 [01] Foster a safe and welcoming environment [02] Communicate regularly with your hub leader, especially when sent new profiles of people we are trying to find a group for. It is important that leaders respond quickly so we do not leave members of our congregation in limbo and without finding community. This single expectation is crucial for ensuring that no-one is left behind or overlooked—timely responses help us care for people well, reflecting our heart for people over process [03] Live with integrity both in and out the church building: be mindful of your online conduct, your conversations, and your example to others church leadership, staff, dream team, and congregation. Treat one another how you would like to be treated, making sure that we are in unity with one another. Approach disagreements with wisdom and respect. [05] Be wise in your approach to alcohol. As a church, we do not endorse, promote, or celebrate its use—this is not to prohibit personal consumption, but to honour those in recovery and avoid becoming a stumbling block to others. Please be mindful of your example, particularly in group settings or public forums [04] Be respectful and honouring of our
[01] Love Jesus and love people
[02] Stay rooted in your personal walk with God: a vibrant prayer life, regular Bible reading, and active worship [03] Take care of yourself first—your spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being is foundational to your leadership. Stay honest about your capacity. You don’t need to be perfect; just planted, humble, and willing to grow.
03
THE HUB SYSTEM
8 HUBS OUL SISTERS MEN’S GROUPS YOUTH GROUPS CIPLESHIP BIBLE STUDIES SOCIALS & INTERES AMILIES SUPPORT & WELLBEING YOUNG ADUL SOUL SISTERS MEN’S GROUPS YOUTH GROUPS CIPLESHIP BIBLE STUDIES SOCIALS & INTEREST SOUL GROUPS ARE ORGANISED INTO EIGHT HUBS
Each hub is overseen by a Hub Leader, who is your first point of contact for support, feedback, and prayer. Hub Leaders replace the traditional “coaching” system and provide relational oversight, encouragement, and development for every group leader.
01
SOUL SISTERS (WOMEN’S GROUPS)
02
MEN’S GROUPS
03
YOUTH GROUPS (AGES 11–18)
04
SOUL YOUNG ADULTS (AGES 18–30)
05
MIXED (DISCIPLESHIP, BIBLE STUDIES & SOCIALS)
06
FAMILIES
07
SPECIAL INTERESTS
08
SOUL FOUNDATION (MENTAL HEALTH, ADDICTION RECOVERY & SUPPORT GROUPS)
04
STARTING AND RUNNING A GROUP
STARTING A GROUP
[01] COMPLETE a Group Leader Application
[02] ATTEND the Lead Like Jesus course, which runs during the SOUL Central terms
[03] CHOOSE a group focus and format
[04] SET your time, location, and term dates
SUGGESTED GROUP STRUCTURE
Consider using the “Check In / Check Up / Check Out” model:
[01] PREPARE each week, you’ll receive a study guide based on the Sunday message, sent out via email every week. You also have access to additional content through RightNow Media. If you’re unsure how to use these resources, speak to your Hub Leader—they’ll be happy to guide you
[01] CHECK IN: Welcome and
[02] START with connection (social, check-in)
connection time (How’s your week? Any praise reports?)
[03] LEAD a discussion and prayer: Your role is to facilitate conversation, not to provide all the answers. You don’t need to be a theological expert—your main job is to create space for others to grow, ask questions, and encounter Jesus. If complex theological questions arise, know that you can always reach out to your Hub Leader or one of our church’s theological leaders for support
[02] CHECK UP: Discussion, scripture, teaching, and sharing (Use study guide, RightNow Media or approved materials)
[03] CHECK OUT: Prayer, takeaways, encouragements, and next steps
[04] END with next steps or encouragement
This structure helps create rhythm, clarity, and space for relational growth.
RUNNING A GROUP
05
CARING FOR PEOPLE
PASTORAL TRAFFIC LIGHT SYSTEM
When someone in your group is going through a challenging season— bereavement, surgery, or family hardship—please lead with presence and compassion. A phone call or in-person visit is far more meaningful than a text. You may also consider organising a meal train or other practical support within your group. The Pastoral Team will always assist where needed, but we encourage you to care first within your group community, where trust and relationship already exist.
YOU’RE NOT EXPECTED TO CARRY EVERY PASTORAL NEED ALONE. HUB LEADERS AND THE PASTORAL CARE TEAM ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOU.
GREEN → YOU CAN HELP
• New to church? Help them feel welcome. • Discipleship basics? Use church courses and Sunday follow-up. • Occasional struggles or need for encouragement.
• Issues you’re unsure how to handle. • Mental health concerns, family breakdown, relational tension. • Long-term illness or grief.
AMBER → SPEAK TO YOUR HUB LEADER
RED → REFER IMMEDIATELY
• Death or overnight hospitalisations • Safeguarding issues (abuse, neglect, suicidal thoughts) • Addiction or persistent, unrepentant behaviour • Domestic violence or serious trauma • Email: pastoral@soulchurch.com
06
SAFEGUARDING
OUR COMMITMENT
PRACTICAL GUIDELINES FOR GROUP LEADERS [CHILDREN AND FAMILIES] While many groups are primarily adult oriented, it is not uncommon for children to be present. To ensure a safe and clear environment for all.
REPORTING CONCERNS
SOUL Church is committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults. As a group leader, you play a vital role in upholding a safe environment in line with national legislation and church policy.
If a child or adult discloses something concerning:
• Stay calm, listen carefully and avoid leading questions • Do not promise confidentiality. Explain that you must pass on serious concerns to help keep people safe • Record the disclosure and report it immediately to one of theDesignated Safeguarding Officers (DSOs)
[RESPONSIBILITIES]
WE WILL
Parents are fully responsible for their own children . At the start of a group term or when new families join, clearly state: “Children remain under the supervision and responsibility of their parents or guardians while attending connect groups. Group leaders are not responsible for any child in attendance.”
• Ensure the protection and wellbeing of all under our care • Act promptly on concerns or disclosures • Provide ongoing training and support for all leaders and volunteers • Cooperate fully with statutory agencies when required For full safeguarding support or to report a concern, contact: Joe McKinney - Lead DSO safeguarding@soulchurch.com 01603 488880 You can also use the Safeguarding Concern Form available at the bottom of our website: www.soulchurch.com/policy-documents
TRAINING
[SAFETY BOUNDARIES]
No child should be left alone with another child or adult of the opposite gender , including during play, in side rooms or outdoors No children allowed in bedrooms regardless of gender or reason. If you are hosting, kindly set this expectation up front Bathrooms : Children should be accompanied by their own parent or guardian, never by another adult or child Sleeping arrangements (for overnight groups or retreats): Follow SOUL Church’s safeguarding overnight guidelines. Speak to your Hub Leader or DSO if unsure
All group leaders are expected to:
• Read the full SOUL Church Safeguarding Policy annually
• Attend safeguarding briefings or online training provided via your Hub Leader or the Safeguarding Team
THIS SUMMARY IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE. WHEN IN DOUBT, CONSULT YOUR HUB LEADER OR SAFEGUARDING OFFICER. YOUR ROLE IS VITAL IN CREATING A SAFE,WELCOMING AND HONOURING SPACE FOR EVERYONE IN YOUR GROUP.
“I AM SENDING YOU OUT LIKE SHEEP AMONG WOLVES.THEREFORE BE AS SHREWD AS SNAKES AND AS INNOCENT AS DOVES.” MATTHEW 10:16 (NIV)
07
WE AIM TO KEEP THINGS SIMPLE. HERE’S HOW WE STAY CONNECTED:
Hub group chats for quick updates
ADMIN & COMMUNICATION
Regular updates from the groups leadership team
PLANNING CENTER
Manage your group rota and attendance (if applicable)
WE’RE COMMITTED TO YOUR GROWTH AS A LEADER. YOU’LL HAVE ACCESS TO:
TERMLY TRAINING NIGHTS
08
ONE-TO-ONE COACHING CHECK-INS WITH YOUR HUB LEADER
OCCASIONAL TEAM SOCIALS AND PRAYER NIGHTS
We want to invest in you as you invest in others.
LEADER DEVELOPMENT
09
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
“WHAT IF NO-ONE SHOWS UP?”
“WHAT IF SOMEONE DOMINATES THE CONVERSATIONS?”
THANK YOU FOR SAYING YES TO LEADING.
That’s okay! Pray, prepare, and stay faithful. Consistency matters. In most groups, on any given night, only a third to half of the group will turn up – and that’s normal. Plan for it. Make your group chat double or even triple the size of the space you’re aiming to fill. Over time, consistency creates community.
“WHAT IF SOMEONE SHARES SOMETHING DEEPLY PERSONAL OR CONCERNING?” The goal of any good group discussion is for everyone in the group to feel able and comfortable to contribute. If one person begins to dominate, gently guide the discussion and invite others to share. Don’t be afraid to chat privately with that person afterwards, with grace and clarity, to help them understand the importance of shared space.
You are part of a story bigger than yourself—a movement of people who believe that life changes happen best in circles, not just rows. By opening your heart, your home, or your schedule to lead a group, you are making space for the Holy Spirit to transform lives, one relationship at a time. Every time you welcome someone in, every prayer you pray, every message you follow up on, every awkward silence you navigate, and every moment of breakthrough you witness—it matters. You are building the Kingdom of God in one of the most personal, powerful ways possible: through community. “The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Matthew 23:11–12 (NIV) We believe leadership is not about status or position, but about presence. It's not about having all the answers, but about making room for others to encounter Jesus. Thank you for embodying servant leadership and for saying yes to the call. YOU ARE THE HEARTBEAT OF SOUL CHURCH'S VISION—THANK YOU FOR BEING A LEADER. THANK YOU FOR SHEPHERDING GOD'S PEOPLE.
“WHAT IF I FEEL UNQUALIFIED?”
You’re not alone. You have a team around you. We lead with grace, not perfection. The Lead Like Jesus course and termly hub training are there to support you.
Stay calm, thank them for their honesty, and follow the Pastoral Traffic Light System. Reach out to your Hub Leader or the Pastoral Team as needed.
CONTACT INFO
GROUPS TEAM Email: groups@soulchurch.com Phone: +441603 488880
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