Gateway Church Life Group Birthday Celebration Protocol

Purpose

To ensure that every church member's birthday is celebrated within their respective Life Groups (LGs) at Gateway Church. The objectives are:

1. To ensure no member goes unnoticed on their birthday, affirming their value within the community.
2. To encourage active participation in Life Groups, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

Scope

This protocol applies to all Life Groups within Gateway Church.

Protocol Details

1. Birthday Tracking and Notification:
   • Each Life Group host is responsible for maintaining an up-to-date list of all members' birthdays.
   • The LG host should review the list monthly to identify upcoming birthdays and plan accordingly.
2. Birthday Celebration Planning:
   • The LG host, along with a designated 'Birthday Coordinator' from the group (a role that rotates monthly among willing members), will organize a small celebration for each member's birthday.
   • Celebrations should be scheduled during one of the regular LG meetings closest to the member's birthday.
3. Celebration Guidelines:
   • Celebrations can include a special prayer for the birthday member, a birthday card signed by all LG members, and a simple cake or favourite treat of the birthday member.
   • Members are encouraged to share a personal affirmation or short blessing with the birthday member.
4. Funding for Celebrations:
   • To cover the costs associated with the birthday celebrations, such as the cake, a collection will be taken up among Life Group members during the meeting of the celebration.
   • Contributions are voluntary, with each member encouraged to give according to their ability, ensuring no undue burden is placed on any individual.
5. Inclusivity and Sensitivity:
   • Ensure that all celebrations are sensitive to the personal preferences and dietary restrictions of the birthday member.
   • Efforts should be made to include all members in the celebration, even those who cannot attend in person (e.g., via a video call).
6. Documentation and Feedback:
   • After each birthday celebration, the LG host should document the event briefly, noting attendance and any feedback or suggestions for future celebrations.
   • This feedback should be reviewed periodically to improve and refine the celebration process.

Conclusion

By implementing this protocol, Gateway Church aims to enhance the sense of community within Life Groups, ensuring that every member feels valued and connected.