What is unique about Companions in Christ?

Companions in Christ opens minds and hearts to God in new and transforming ways. It leads participants through classic spiritual practices in ways that help them understand those disciplines with greater depth and experience and assists them in life-changing discovery. It shows participants how to uncover rich layers of scripture, to practice new forms of prayer, and to walk daily in a fuller experience of obedience to God. As people journey through Companions in Christ, they become more open to God's presence in their lives and open to God's Spirit which fills their the spiritual hunger for a more personal relationship with God.

Can Companions in Christ be used in my Church School?

Companions in Christ includes a two-hour weekly meeting and builds a strong sense of community within the small group. If your Church School meets for that length of time and if your attendance is stable from week to week, Companions may work well for you. The ideal Companions environment is quiet and unrushed with ample time for sharing and reflection.

What is the best size for a Companions in Christ group?

Eight to ten people is the ideal size. The weekly meeting opens with a time of sharing. Churches who tested Companions during its development discovered that groups with more than ten members often did not have enough time for all their members to share their experiences. A group can work effectively with as few as 5-6 persons if all are deeply committed to regular attendance."

Are leaders required to attend training before they start a Companions in Christ group in their church?

Leader Orientations (Basic One-day Trainings) and Leader Trainings (Advanced Three-day Trainings) are offered across the country. Leaders who attend the trainings will become familiar with the resource and will develop the distinct leadership skills used in leading formational groups. Although leader training is highly recommended, it is not required.

Is Companions in Christ appropriate for my denomination?

Companions in Christ was written by well-known writers from diverse theological backgrounds. Churches of various denominations tested it. We believe Companions is well suited for almost any congregation, in any denomination, of any size.

Is there a recommended order of using Companions resources?

We recommend that you begin with the 28-week original Companions resource. That is the foundational resource of the Companions series. Groups made up of seekers or new Christians could benefit from beginning with Exploring the Way, the prequel to the Companions series. After completing the original Companions in Christ course, you may choose the topic of interest to your group. Refer to the Companions Quick Guide for more detailed information about all resources.

What age group is The Way of the Child for?

The Way of the Child is for children ages 6-11. Learn more about The Way of the Child.

We still have some leftover Participant's Books from our last group. Can we use the original books along with the new single volume or 5-piece Participant's Books?

Yes, the material in the new-cover single volume and 5-Piece Participant's Book is the same as the content of the original Participant's Book, so they can be mixed in the same group. The page numbers, of course, will be different but it is easy to orient people by Part (or Volume) and Week number. The Leader's Guides are also the same except for the Closing Retreat. (Learn more about the 28-week resource.)