As we set our sights on the end of the pandemic, we are moving into Phase 2 of our plan for post-pandemic church life. As we’ve shared a few times over the last two months, our plan in Phase 2 includes a reorganization of our Missional Communities (MCs). We’ll detail below exactly how this works, followed by a few FAQs. If you are new to Karis, now is the perfect time to join an MC!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to joining an MC during the reorganization process:

1. LEARN. We’re so excited to introduce to you 15 Missional Communities. We’re especially thankful to the men and their families who have committed to leading with us in our care for you, even after such a long and exhausting past 12+ months. You can learn more about them by clicking on the Groups tab in the Church Center App, or by visiting the website page here.

2. DISCUSS. Take some time to talk with your family, DNA group, and/or an MC Leader, to discuss which MC might be best for you. We know many of you will choose to stay in your current MC and that’s ok! If you have questions or need additional direction in finding an MC, contact Pastor Rob at rob@karischurch.org.

3. VISIT. For two weeks, starting May 16th, MC leaders will host a combination of in-person and virtual open house events for all of our members and guests to attend. Consider attending one or more open houses as you discern which MC is the best fit for you. Registration is required, and you can sign up for all our Open Houses on the Church Center app or our events page now!

4. COMMIT. Once you’ve decided which MC you’d like to join, let the MC Leader know. The easiest way to do that is through the Church Center App. From the app, click on Groups at the bottom, then scroll down to Find a Group - Missional Communities. Select the MC you’d like to join and then click Ask to join.

Note: all current MCs will have their final Gathering on or before Saturday, May 15th.

Reorganization FAQs

Do I have to wait until after attending an open house before committing to an MC?

You’re welcome to communicate to your MC Leader your intention to re-commit to your current MC now. If you’d like to join another MC, you may also begin having those discussions right away with other MC Leaders. Though if you're considering a group you're not currently a part of, we strongly encourage you to attend an open house event before making a final commitment.

Can I join any MC?

Sort of. We encourage you to explore all of your options with two considerations in mind. 1) We’d like to see our Ridgeway Neighborhood MCs consist mostly of those who live in or near the neighborhood. But if you’re someone with a big heart for the area, don’t be afraid to attend an open house to learn more. 2) We’re going to give our MC Leaders some discretion in how big their MCs start. While we’ll never turn away a guest, we’re asking our members to be mindful of the size of the MC they’re considering. We’ll do our best to guide each group in starting with roughly 10-12 adults. We’re certain we have enough groups now to make this possible, and we’re actively making plans to start new groups as we pray and plan for God to bring new faces to the family.

Should I still attend the open house of my new or current MC if I’m already certain I’d like to join?

Absolutely! At the very least, by attending, you’ll be a big help to your MC Leader in welcoming other new faces. And also, you’re welcome to bring guests along with you to learn more.

What should I do about my current DNA Group?

If you’ve had a positive experience with your DNA Group, consider staying together as you explore your MC options. You’re also welcome to stay together for a season, even if you decide to meet in different MCs. The longtime hope is that DNA groups exist within the life of one MC, but let’s give each other flexibility and grace during this transition.

What is the plan for addressing COVID-related concerns as we begin meeting in MCs again?

You’re going to notice this paragraph (below) in every place online where you can learn more about MCs. Consider asking your current or prospective MC Leader more if you have questions about what this will look like for your particular group moving forward.

In consideration of the other members of the Missional Community, we’re asking all participants, regardless of vaccination status, to continue being vigilant throughout the week regarding the following of CDC and Boone County Health Department guidelines as we attempt to minimize exposure to COVID-19. Adherence to these guidelines will allow MCs to gather more safely with one another. Additionally, each MC Leader will evaluate the risks presented by the group when deciding on the format (online, outside, or in-home) of their MC Gathering each week, as well as the precautions each group will take (masks, social distancing). For questions or for further clarification regarding COVID guidelines at Karis Church please email info@karischurch.org.