The SIAFU Guidebook

Part I I I : Forming a Company 83

Organizing for Change: Starting Your Own Chapter of the SIAFU Network

First Things First Now that we have laid out the reasons why we need to mobilize urban disciples to touch and transform their churches and neighborhoods, we are ready to talk about the specifics of starting your own Chapter. We have sought to make this as transparent and simple as possible; the desire is to create a process that churches all across the country can follow, linking the various Chapters together with a common vision and burden: to transform America’s inner cities for Christ. To begin with, you must take stock in your present relationship with Christ. You should start this process with the truth – clearly know your commitment to the Lord, his Church, his people, your city, and the neighborhood where your Chapter will meet. You will need to seek the Lord regarding the shape and status of your Chapter, spend ample time discussing the implications of the Chapter with your pastoral and spiritual authority, and move forward boldly and wisely, as God leads. The following steps and structure are designed to help you become as clear as possible about your Chapter – what your Chapter will be, how and when you will start, how you will function, and why you started. Get together those interested in starting a SIAFU Chapter, and begin to brainstorm on some of the things you hope to accomplish through your group. Discuss together your vision for what you believe God wants to do through your Chapter. Questions like these may trigger some good ideas in your discussion:

• Why do we want a SIAFU Chapter? What do we hope God will accomplish through our group in the weeks and months ahead?

• When do we want to start our Chapter, and when will we sponsor our gatherings? How often will we meet, and where will the meetings be held?