Embrace FAQ's
03
EMBRACE
A Central Territory Program
Have you heard about our small group movement called: Embrace? Or maybe you’ve heard about it, seen pictures on Instagram or Facebook (click HERE to see Embrace pictures from those using the hashtag #saEmbrace) but you want to know more.
Well here’s the simplest explanation of a very simple concept:
- Embrace is a once a month, discussion based, small group program for women.
- The groups should be no larger than 8 and, if possible, mixed in age.
- Embrace was designed for Salvation Army corps (churches) but we welcome anyone that believes in the concept.
If you’re at a Salvation Army corps we suggest working with your corps officer and/or women’s ministries secretary. Doing this will give you the needed support to be a successful leader or advocate for Embrace. Once you or the designated person registers to be a leader, we will send you a digital tool kit to get you started. (Embrace Campus sign up here.)
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about Embrace that you may find helpful:
QUESTION: What does the program for Embrace look like?
ANSWER: Unlike a traditional women’s program that may take place, there is no ‘program.’ There is no craft, there is no giveaway, there is no Bible Study (unless you’re in an Embrace: Campus group). The discussion questions that the leaders receive on the first of the month are the program.
Here’s what a typical Embrace meeting may look like:
- 6pm: Arrive at host home (leader brings four questions)
- 6:15pm sit down for dinner (host provides)
- 6:30pm – Leader introduces the monthly topic and begins with the first question (leaders can also share the introductory email to get the group thinking about the topic). Leaders then guide the group through the four questions, being prepared to answer first to get the conversation going.
- 8pm: wrap up with prayer.
QUESTION: How many months do the groups meet?
Answer: Each group, corps, church is unique so the answer may not always be the same. Ideally following the school/program calendar may serve you best. Consult your corps officer to find out what works best. Some groups do meet year round. Others break during the summer or during kettle season. It really is entirely up to what works best for your situation.
QUESTION: Is there a Spanish translation of Embrace?
ANSWER: YES! Monthly questions are sent out in both English and Spanish. We are also exploring other translations like Korean and Creole.
QUESTION: How do you chose the groups?
ANSWER: If you have more than one Embrace group, it is helpful to have one person serve as the Embrace administrator over all the groups. This person would select the groups and secure leaders for each group. Groups can be formed by location, language, or best day/time they can meet. It is also helpful when forming groups that you make sure there is a good balance of ages and ethnicities, and try to mix up friendship groups. Also, it is vital to encourage group members to invite neighbors or other women from your community groups to join.
QUESTION: When do the groups meet?
ANSWER: The groups meet when it works best for them to meet. The leader will facilitate gathering this information. It may be helpful to establish a rhythm, meeting the same day every month, like, the second Sunday night of the month. Again each group is unique and should try to accommodate each other.
