Seasonal Cell Cycles
We recognize the importance of creating seasonal growth cycles in order to nurture the natural developmental process of community life. Calendars and schedules are a reality we have to work within, and so, we follow a trimester schedule that enables us to have two 16-week cell cycles (Fall and Spring) and a short 8-week summer cycle that is oriented towards outreach (see the Calendar page for specific dates).

CYCLE ACTIVITIES

Beginning of Cycle Activities
A few weeks before the group starts meeting, new prospects and previous members should be contacted and invited to the first night of group. Encourage existing group members to invite a friend and to help out with "pot luck." Engage in fun get-to-know-you activities the first evening together.

The second meeting should include going over the Covenant . This will provide the needed structure and foundation for a healthy cell group and minimize problems from occurring down the road.

Re-Covenanting

This occurs when an existing group begins a new cell cycle (semester).  It includes going over the Covenant Handout, but also involves reviewing the evaluations from the previous cell cycle that recently ended.  The purpose is to utilize the input from the evaluations to address any concerns within the group and make any needed corrections or adjustments so the group continues to grow through the stages of group development.  Ideally the leader should review their group evaluations with their Formation Associate or Quad Leader prior to reviewing them with their group and receive consultation regarding what to address in the evaluations and any possible redirecting that should be done.  Re-covenanting is critical to fruitful cell development.

End of Cycle Activities
The end of a cycle is a critical learning time for cell leaders and an important reflecting time for the cell group.  There are three evaluation tools, each with a unique purpose.  All three should be handed out in the group, filled out, and handed back to the leader before the group stops meeting for the cycle.  After conducting the evaluations, the cell leader should contact their quad leader or Formation Associate to set up a time to review the evaluations.

End of Cycle Evaluations

• Cell Leadership Feedback - Helpful information for the leader so they can continue to grow and develop.
• Cell Group Feedback - Healthy feedback to the group as a whole regarding how they have done based on the covenant they developed at the baginning of the cycle.
• Personal Reflection Form - Helps the cell leader know how to better minister to each individual in the group.