Heartbeats: Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR A GROUP?

Sign-up Sundays are held at Joy Christian Center several weeks prior to the beginning of a new HeartBeats quarter. During this time, tables with sign-up sheets and displays about the various groups will be set up throughout the church. People may sign up before and after services. You may also contact the church office at 320-253-7819 or e-mail us at HeartBeats@greatjoy.org. Group sizes are limited and may fill up quickly, so we encourage you to sign up as soon as possible! If you have questions about any particular group, feel free to call the leader.

HOW DO I GET MY BOOKS/MATERIALS?

Each group member is responsible for purchasing his/her own books or materials at JCC’s bookstore on Sunday mornings. Contact your group leader if this is not possible for you. Materials will generally be available a week or two before the start of your group.

What if my group requires a fee?

Several groups require a fee for materials or services related to the group. Fees are payable at JCC’s bookstore on sign-up Sundays. Your fee must be paid prior to signing up for the group. Please check the individual group listings in the directory or the sign-up sheet for specific instructions related to these fees.

WHAT IF I CAN’T AFFORD THE COST?

If someone is unable to be involved in a HeartBeats group because of the cost, a scholarship may be available. Inquire within the JCC bookstore to apply for a scholarship.

CAN I VISIT A GROUP OR BRING A FRIEND?

Yes! If you are unsure if a specific group is for you, call the leader and let him/her know you will be visiting. We also strongly encourage group members to invite a friend or visitor to attend. In either case, call the leader ahead of time to be sure the group will be prepared to accommodate additional people.

HOW CAN I START A GROUP?

Great question! Start by getting involved with a current group and experience what HeartBeats is all about. Then complete the following steps required to become a HeartBeats leader. (There is no specific order in which these need to be done, but they all must be completed to serve as a HeartBeats small group leader.)

Attend Safe at H.O.M.E - This will get you acquainted with the vision and mission of Joy Christian Center and give you the opportunity to become a Covenant Member. Watch the church bulletin for upcoming dates or call the church office at (320) 253-7819 for dates and sign-up information.
Attend a HeartbBeats Orientation - At the orientation, you will receive the training and information needed to equip you as a HeartBeats small group leader. Watch the church bulletin for upcoming training or call the church office at (320) 253-7819 for dates and sign-up information.
Serve as an Intern in a HeartBeats Group - This gives you on-the-job training and a chance to practice your leadership skills. Call the church office at (320) 253-7819 to find out more about becoming an intern.

WHAT IF I’M INTERESTED IN A GROUP NOT OFFERED?

You may do one of two things. You may either start a group of your interest (see How Can I Start A Group?), or you may contact the church office and let us know what kind of small group you would like to see offered. Call us at (320) 253-7819 or e-mail us at HeartBeats@greatjoy.org. We really do welcome your input and will do our best to make the groups available that people are interested in. Remember, new groups are starting all the time. Be sure to check out the directory at the beginning of each new quarter. It may have just what you’re looking for!

DID WE MISS YOUR QUESTION? We welcome any questions and comments from you. Feel free to contact the church at (320) 253-7819 or HeartBeats@greatjoy.org.