What's FORM all about?
Form is a discipleship and leadership course for 18-30 year old's. It is year of personal transformation, making space for God to do what He wants with us. It is designed to be a foundation, giving you the skills, character and attitudes to change the world for Jesus. We do this in the context of a strong community, totally reliant on Jesus.
“We want to be followers of Jesus in character, service and mission.”
Why would I want to spend a year on Form?
“Small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it ” (Matthew 7v14). Being a Christian is no easy job! We are not 'of' this world and thus face opposition living out our faith in life. We have an enemy- the devil- who wishes us to grow cold in our love for Christ and ineffective for his Kingdom. As life changes it can be very difficult to keep our eyes fixed firmly on Jesus, especially with major life transitions, such as starting a new job, a family or moving home.
Spending a year on Form is a great way to become like the tree in Psalm 1- to plant yourself by water and grow strong roots, so that when the wind and storms come you can stand firm. In other words, we aim that by the end of Form, you are equipped and enabled to be the leader God is calling you to be for the rest of your life.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” Romans 12 v 2
How does it work?
Training
The formal training takes place over two days per week (09.00-16.30, Wednesday and Thursday), and we have an excellent teaching programme.
This covers:
• who God is & what He’s like
• who we are & how His church should live,
• how He & us work together to transform the world.
As well as 3 hours teaching a week we go out into the community to serve them, we spend time pushing into worship, prayer, signs and wonders and prophecy and we engage in 'huddles' where we openly share what is going on in our lives.
Simply put, we study and outwork the three sides of the triangle lifeshape throughout the year. We believe that all of God’s word has real practical implications so we aim to lead Form in such a way as to enable these to happen. We believe that the Bible and the Holy Spirit are key in learning to follow Jesus and disciplining others.
The term dates reflect the Coventry school term dates, including the half-terms.
Work part-time
As part of FORM you will be expected to work part-time in a job if you are able. This is important not only so you can support yourself financially, but so that it keeps everything you are doing ‘real’. For so many people, learning how to be a follower of Christ in the workplace is essential grounding in a long-term walk of discipleship.
Internship/project
In addition, all Formees are given a placement under the supervision of an established member of Westwood Church, aiding a currently running ministry or pioneering a new one. Previously Formees have been involved in 'Kids Klub', youth work, homeless outreach and student work.
Course Fees
Fees for the 2012/13 year are to be finalised but will be in the region of £1000-£1200. This covers all teaching, materials, trips away (not including the annual mission, for which we fund raise) and meals together. This needs to be paid before you start the course in September.
How do I apply?
The application process involves filling out a form (see below) including naming two references to support your application, and finally an interview. Please contact form@westwoodchurch.co.uk for an application form, or if you are a member of Westwood church, collect a paper copy from the FORM noticeboard in the lobby.
I'm not sure, how can I find out more about FORM?
Don't hesitate to contact Phil or Anne Richardson, who lead FORM in Coventry. You can get hold of them via form@westwoodchurch.co.uk, or grab one of them on a Sunday at Westwood Church. They will be very happy to chat and answer any questions you might have about FORM.