The application process for the Fall 2013 Round of Redemption Groups is open. Those who struggle or have struggled with habitual sin issues, abuse, sexual assault or other traumatic experiences are encouraged to pray about and consider participating in Redemption Groups. The fundamental truths taught in Redemption Groups, however, are valuable for anyone as we are all in need of ongoing redemption.This post provides you with information explaining the Redemption Group ministry of The Paradox Church, including a link to the application form, which will be your next step if God leads you to apply. Please review everything completely, commit your steps to prayer, and respond with any additional questions you may have.What Are Redemption Groups?Trials and suffering are common to the human condition; Christians are not exempt. There are times in our lives when trials and suffering seem to dominate our existence. Through these trials, God wants to transform our lives to see Him and to worship Him to a greater extent. The purpose of Redemption Groups is to refocus our worship of God as we invite the truth of the gospel into our past, present and future and learn to walk faithfully with our identity founded in Jesus alone.Redemption Groups are small groups that dig into difficult trials and suffering circumstances in light of God’s story (defines our lives), our identity as worshippers (misplaced worship is at the core of our problems) and God’s redemptive purpose in Jesus. Participants will meet with a small group each week, but these are unlike City Groups in that they are only for a short period of time – a “rest stop” on the City Group “highway”. Once a group concludes, participants will go back to their ongoing community, taking a foundation of gospel-centered heart change into their existing relationships.When Do Redemption Groups Happen?It all begins with The Weekend Intensive! September 20-21. To kick-off each round, Redemption Groups begin with a weekend ‘Intensive’ that includes teaching and your first group meetings. The Intensive is scheduled from 6:45pm to 9:15pm on Friday, September 20th, and 9am to 3pm on Saturday, September 21st.
It is imperative that you attend the intensive, as well as the following Tuesday night sessions. If you are unable to commit to these sessions then we'd ask for you to not apply because we usually have more applicants than available spots. Please note, childcare will not be available. We encourage you to talk with your City Group to find childcare during these weeks.
What Do I Need For Redemption Groups?There will be weekly reading and journaling in the Redemption book for the Intensive and ongoing group nights. You will receive this book before the start of the Intensive Weekend.We ask for a materials fee of $20 to cover refreshments at the Intensive, the Redemption book and other materials needed to make Redemption Group sessions run smoothly. Please do not allow cost to be a prohibiting factor in your decision to participate.
Are Redemption Groups For Me?Please spend time in prayer to discern if this is the right time for you to join Redemption Groups. We highly encourage married couples to participate in the Redemption Group process together. We ask that you also pray through and consider the group requirements and commitment to determine if you are able to fulfill those at this time.
How Do I Sign Up For Redemption Groups?Confirm your willingness and ability to participate in Redemption Groups by filling out this
online form. This is a confidential application form. We will do our best to ensure that all of the information contained in this form is viewed only as necessary by those who oversee this ministry and the leaders of your group.By completing the spiritual counseling consent form at the end of the application, you are confirming that you agree with all of the stated policies concerning pastoral counseling in the Redemption Group setting.Please Note: Completing the application form does not automatically place you into a Redemption Group. We have a limited number of openings. The elders of The Paradox are committed to serving our covenanted partners (members) first and will prioritize our partners if space becomes an issue. In addition, Redemption Groups are not suitable for everyone, and if the overseeing pastors determine that you would be better served in another capacity, we ask that you submit to their wisdom and recommendations. This ministry is not intended to be a substitute for mental health, pastoral, legal or other professional services. If expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.
Where Do I Go If I Have Questions?If you would like to have someone give you more information and/or pray with you about this decision, please email
redemption@theparadoxchurch.com
