Since registration is right around the corner, here are some of the most common questions about Connection Groups. If you want more information about Connection Groups, you can find that here.
- What are Connection Groups?
Connection Groups are online small groups for women living cross-culturally. Unlike talking to friends back home where you have to explain so much of your life, when you sign up for a CG, you are joining a small group of women who get your life, allowing you to go deeper more quickly than you might in other contexts. There are four different types of Connection Groups.
- What is the difference between the types of Connection Groups?
In general, we have four types of groups: Skype, Facebook Live Chat, Facebook Only and Email.
Skype is one of our preferred methods because it allows you to actually talk with other people! Many of you are isolated and not able to have these kinds of conversations. Skype groups also have a private Facebook group to allow for connection at other times too.
Facebook Only groups are popular because we know some of your internet is not reliable enough for Skype or you travel or have other reasons Skype doesn’t work.
Facebook Live Chat is basically a hybrid of the Skype group and the Facebook Only group. You have a set hour where all of you will go to your secret Facebook group. Your facilitator will upload questions and all of you can respond, comment, tag, like and ask each other questions. It gives the live aspect of the Skype groups and as a result, tends to foster a deeper connection. It also doesn’t require as strong or reliable of an internet connection.
One email only group will be available for those of you not on Facebook.
- How long do the groups run?
The groups will run for 10 weeks. They will start the week of February 24 and run through the week of April 29.
- How does the group meeting time work with Daylight Savings?
Daylight savings will cause a time change for some of the world. This could happen March 11 (US), March 25 (Europe), some other weekend, or not at all. This is a logistical nightmare which we have decided to leave up to each individual group to decide based on the locations of the women in that group.
- What does it cost?
This is a fun answer. Absolutely Free!
- Who leads these groups?
These groups are led by women just like you. Some are currently living overseas. Some have returned “home” and continue to have the desire to connect with and support women in this cross-cultural life. All of these women have seen the value of connection and been willing to step up and lead. This year we are excited to have almost 40 groups.
- What are my commitment expectations?
Each group is limited in size, which is why if you sign up for a group, we need you. We know that you may be in a place where you have nothing to offer, but you desperately need connection. That is more than okay! That is why we have Connection Groups. But it isn’t a place to sign up to just watch others be a group.
Skype and FB Live Chat are a commitment of the hour(ish) meeting time a week. The Facebook Only groups, we would hope that you pop in and comment 2-3 times a week. Some of the topics are deep. Some are more light-hearted and fun.
- Is this a Bible Study?
No. It is not intended to be a Bible Study. Each week is based on the theme of the week for Velvet Ashes. It can be helpful to read the blog or the book club book, but by no means are these requirements.
- When is registration and how do I sign up?
Registration for all Skype, Facebook Live Chat, and the Email groups will open on Tuesday, February 20th, 6 p.m. EST.
We will continue to open the Facebook Only groups in waves.
Wave One will be on Tuesday, February 20th, 6 p.m. EST
Wave Two will be on Wednesday, February 21st, 2 a.m. EST
Wave Three will be on Wednesday, February 21st, 1 p.m. EST
- Can I see the groups before registration opens?
Yes. Click here to check out the registration page, see the groups and times, and read the bios of each of the facilitators.
Will there be any other opportunities for this in re-entry to their passport country this spring? All the spots were full yesterday!