GUIDELINES FOR STARTING A SUPPORT GROUP

GUIDELINES FOR STARTING A SUPPORT GROUP

1. Interested individuals should get together to pray and "brainstorm" various methods of starting a group in their particular church or area.

2. Potential group leaders should be actively working their own 12 Step program, with a minimum of one year of continuous recovery.

3. Schedule a visit with your pastoral/ministerial leadership, expressing your need and desire for a Christian support group to begin in your congregation. Discuss feasible methods to implement a group. Suggest the scheduling of an educational workshop or film.

4. With the approval of your pastoral staff, set a specific time slot and meeting place. Run a line or two in your church newsletter or bulletin with information regarding the new Christian support group which is available for individuals and family members who are struggling with alcoholism, chemical dependency and other compulsive behavior problems. Advertisement should run at least one month, longer if possible.

5. It only takes two DEDICATED people to start a group. Group leaders must be willing to meet regularly even though attendance may seem small, so that you will establish the fact that the group is available.

6. The group leader must be open to share what God is doing in their own lives and be ready to LISTEN as others open up. Remember it not your job to "fix" anyone!

7. Pray that the infected people in your congregation will have the courage to reach out for help, and that you BE THERE for them!

8. If you are attending other 12 Step groups meetings, e.g., NA, AA, we recommend you listen with an open mind, particularly in regard to the "12 Steps." Though various people may have different opinions concerning the identity of the "higher power," we need not press the point because we know in our own minds and hearts that He is indeed our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! They are helping many to find sobriety and are located worldwide with both daytime and evening meetings available. Meeting directories may be obtained by referring to the Yellow Pages or local telephone directories and calling the appropriate number in your particular area. Much practical help may be derived from these traditional 12 Step groups, and as they say, "eat the meat and spit out the bones."