If you're reading this you've probably been invited to help host (or speak at) one of our weekly gatherings. Firstly, thank you! Secondly, if we've asked you it's because we trust you! So, make it your own and take the lead - God has always used leaders like you to lead and love his people.
Conducting a baptism?
If you are baptising someone please check out our guide to hosting a baptism!
Need to keep it simple?
If you want or need to keep it simple then just welcome everyone briefly, invite them to share Good or God stories, pray and then welcome whoever is preaching. The biggest tip is that when asking people to share Good or God, "The more you say, the less they do. The less you say, the more they do". Sorted!
Need more details?
If you're more of a details person, or want to explore other options, below is a basic "run-sheet" for a simple church gathering at the beach, park, farm or other facility.
Three ingredients for gatherings
While we have no requirements around order, length or activities at any of our gatherings, we aim to include three key ingredients in every gathering: the people of God, the Word of God and the Spirit of God.
The People of God
We want to highlight the value of God's people and his activity in their lives. Honouring the humanity of each person present changes the mood and purpose of each gathering. Within a 'service' you can honour God's people in many ways such as sharing testimonies, an 'open mic' sharing time or highlighting a key story in someone's life.
The Word of God
Without teaching and encouragement from God's Word, the Bible, your gathering isn't in any way a Christian gathering or service. Ensure the Bible is honoured and that preaching is simple and can be lovingly obeyed by all present.
The Spirit of God
The Christian faith is not mere religious observance or moral wisdom. Rather, Jesus taught that God's present, his Holy Spirit, dwells in all of those who have put their faith in him. Not only that, but the Bible explicitly teaches that the Holy Spirit gifts us within our gatherings to build up and encourage each other! Whether a simple, "Come Holy Spirit", prayer to close, or a time for prayer or prophetic ministry, organise the gathering around your expectation that God will personally speak and lead.
Typical Runsheet
Pre-service: Connect, Listen, Share, Pray
Foster an environment for people to connect, listen, share + pray together.
Good or God [People of God]
Keys: lead people to their own God-moment (in sharing/praying). The less you say, the more they'll say; the more you say, the less they'll say.
- Gather everyone within earshot of where you will sit/stand.
- Invite ppl to share a brief, encouraging Good or God story.
- Read a short scripture and/or open in prayer
Optional: written/liturgical prayer, testimonies, confession, kids talk, people share 'Good or God' with a buddy first so everyone gets to chat.
Sermon [Word of God]
Key: Fulfil Jesus' commission to “teach others to obey all I commanded you”.
- Share the Gospel/Mission/Vision/Rhythms and any announcements.
- Preach a simple sermon that's hyper-focused on Jesus
Come, Holy Spirit Prayer [Spirit of God]
Key: regulars share brief, encouraging words; visitors listen and enjoy.
- Pray, “Come, Holy Spirit”, expecting the Holy Spirit gifts to manifest.
- Encourage all those prompted by God to share a brief encouragement.