Romans 15:5-6. Sigma Phi Lambda New Member Educator Packet Romans 15:5-6. Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 1

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1 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus so that with one heart and one mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ Romans 15:5-6 Sigma Phi Lambda New Member Educator Packet Romans 15:5-6 Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 1

2 Sigma Phi Lambda New Member Educator Packet TOPICS TABLE OF CONTENTS Page New Member Meetings Overview 3 New Member Curriculum: Week One Introduction to Phi Lamb 5 New Member Curriculum: Week Two What We Believe I 7 New Member Curriculum: Week Three What We Believe II 9 New Member Curriculum: Week Four Who We Are 12 New Member Curriculum: Week Five Fun and Fellowship 13 New Member Curriculum: Week Six Membership Requirements 14 New Member Curriculum: Week Seven Elected and Appointed Officers 16 New Member Curriculum: Week Eight Phi Lamb History 17 New Member Curriculum: Week Nine Review and Reflect 21 New Member Curriculum: Week Ten New Member Test/Celebration 21 Sigma Phi Lambda Constitution 22 New Member Packets 27 New Member Retreat Planning 27 Hazing 28 Preparing to Give Your 10-Minute Testimony 28 Phi Lamb Songs 29 Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 2

3 What an honor and blessing to be chosen as a New Member Educator! You play a vital role in enabling New Members to find a home in Sigma Phi Lambda and helping them grow closer to Christ while communicating the purpose and history of Phi Lamb. This New Member Educator packet will provide you with the information and resources that will allow your New Members to learn what they need to become full members of the Christ-like sisterhood of Sigma Phi Lambda. Our prayer is that each New Member Educator would be able to use the gifts that God has given her to equip the New Members in their chapter as both believers and members. NEW MEMBER MEETINGS Overview It is our goal to standardize the New Member experience for the women at each of our chapters. We recognize that our many chapters are different sizes and exist within different cultural contexts and have unique attributes at each campus. Although we value this kind of uniqueness, we also desire to have a sense of unity in the midst of our diversity. We want each member of Sigma Phi Lambda to have a similar New Member experience and learn the same type of things about Phi Lamb and glorifying God, both individually and as an organization, regardless of which chapter she joins. This packet will guide you through our expectations for weekly meetings for New Members. It will give you not only the content that we expect you to cover, but also the structure we expect for New Member meetings. Before we get into the specifics for each week, there are some elements of the weekly meetings that we want to talk through in order to help you better understand the heart behind each element and why we expect these to be part of your weekly meetings. First, we have prayerfully considered that as New Member Educators (NMEs) for your chapter, you have been called to the task of both teaching New Members about the specifics of Phi Lamb and helping point them toward Jesus in your time together; we all believe that these two elements are interconnected. To help communicate the connection, we have established a vision for New Members, as well as a sequence of teaching New Members about who Phi Lamb is in Christ, so that throughout your semester together, we might glorify God and make His name great. Please carefully read the descriptions of the elements of each week. If you have questions or need clarification on any of it, please ask an officer or seek out your Regional Director, as needed. Also, please understand that each element needs to be included every week. Each week will be divided into two sections. First, all New Members and NMEs will meet together for: an icebreaker, vision casting, Phi Lamb traditions, and the Phi Lamb Foundation lesson, which contains material that will appear on the New Member Test at the end of the semester. These components are done as a large group to create a sense of unity among the whole New Member class. Then, after meeting together as a whole group, New Members will be evenly divided up into smaller groups with a single NME for: a brief devotional, review and application of the lesson, and 10-minute testimonies. These groups should be no larger than 20 New Members per NME, and if you are in a larger chapter, we would prefer that this ratio be closer to 10 or 15 NMs to 1 NME. The same NME and small group of New Members will meet together each week and have an opportunity to develop closer relationships than can be accomplished in the whole group. The following is a more specific description of the elements of each weekly meeting: Whole Group Elements: Vision Sigma Phi Lambda s vision for New Member Education is to equip each New Member to: Embody the identity and purpose of Phi Lamb Grow in their relationship with the Lord Develop Christ-like sisterhood Each week as a group, you will be focusing on one of these three elements. Use the time set aside for casting vision each week to remind New Members of the element being focused on and to share personal connections with that specific element of the vision as it pertains to that week s material. It is important that NMEs are aware that God has brought all kinds of women, each with her own story, together in Phi Lamb. This means that some New Members may have had very few conversations with others about Jesus, while others consider Christian community as a natural part of their heritage. Part of the calling of a NME is to be sensitive to the diverse experiences of your NMs, and casting a clear, Christ-centered, God-glorifying vision each week allows each NM to feel comfortable knowing exactly where our focus will be for that week, as well as the purpose for learning all the things she will be learning that week. Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 3

4 Icebreaker Each week, all NMs and NMEs will participate in a fun icebreaker activity at the beginning of your time together. These activities will vary depending on how many NMs your chapter has, but the goal of this time is to make everyone feel comfortable. These icebreakers should happen in the whole group setting so that girls have the opportunity to interact in a low-pressure situation with many of their fellow New Members, instead of just the few that they ll be working with in their small groups during each meeting. It is also important as NMEs to lead by example and deliberately bring the excitement and fun to each icebreaker. If you are excited and having fun, NMs will be having fun too. If you act bored or too cool for icebreakers, your NMs will follow your lead, so please be mindful of your attitudes and actions. We have provided a list below of possible icebreaker activities for you to facilitate with your New Members. Please feel free to use any of the activities on this list, but know that you are not limited to these: 2 Truths and a Lie Minute-to-Win-It Games Bigger or Better (with items in purse or backpack) Giants/Elves/Wizards Candy Introductions All My Friends Desert Island Scenario Speed Dating (with questions) You may Google for additional ideas or for a description of any of these with which you re unfamiliar. A good resource is which allows you to choose for your group size. Traditions During this time, you will share the traditions assigned to that specific week with your New Members. This is usually something that New Members really enjoy and is included each week because we want NMs to feel a connectedness to their chapter and to get an idea of the fun and meaningful things that help make Phi Lamb what it is. This is another great opportunity each week to share a special connection with, or explain to NMs how those specific traditions help us know more about Phi Lamb, our sisters, and the Lord. Phi Lamb Foundation Lesson This time each week will be specifically devoted to elements of New Member training that are vital in understanding core elements of Phi Lamb. The goal of this time is to communicate the important information clearly and in a way that New Members will understand. The specific elements of the lesson will be included in each week s plan, but it is vital that the NMEs of each chapter have a firm grasp on what information is being presented and to thoughtfully present it in a way that New Members can retain. This is another area where the presentation of material will depend on what is available to your chapter, but NMEs could consider: discussion, notes, PowerPoints, etc. as a method of presenting the lesson to the whole group each week. Many lessons will include these types of resources that are ready to use in your meetings. Small Group Elements: Devo Once you are in small groups, this is an ideal time to connect the elements of the whole group time to scripture in a more intentional way. Specific passages or verses have been chosen for each week, and since each NME will be responsible for their own group of New Members, it is important to prepare for this part of the meetings each week. Each devo will have a focus and specific elements/talking points to discuss as a group. As the weeks go on, you will find that the girls in your group might be more willing to share and contribute during this time, allowing you to facilitate a discussion about scripture. Review & Application This part of your time together will look a little different each week, but essentially the purpose of this time together is to allow New Members to practice, review, and apply what they have learned that week during the Phi Lamb Foundation lesson or traditions. Different activities or discussion questions will be provided, so be sure to have a good idea of what this time consists of each week. 10-Minute Testimonies As a way to grow closer to one another within your small group, and grow in your relationships with Christ, we have allotted a time each week for testimonies. for first NMEs, but then in the following weeks one or two New Members to share their testimonies with their small group before ending your time together. Use the information in this packet on How to Write/Share Your Testimony to help you and your NMs, which will hopefully take the stress off of a NM who is unsure of what to say and is unfamiliar with a testimony, as well as some guidelines for girls who may be tempted to overshare. New Member Meeting Schedule Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 4

5 Week 1: Introduction to Phi Lamb Week 2: What We Believe I Week 3: What We Believe II Week 4: Who We Are Week 5: Fun and Fellowship Week 6: Membership Requirements Week 7: Elected and Appointed Officers Week 8: History Week 9: Review and Reflect Week 10: New Member Test and Celebration Week One - Introduction to Phi Lamb Whole Group Elements: 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) You will be explaining the whole vision this first week, laying the foundation for the semester. Equipping New Members to: Embody the identity and purpose of Phi Lamb Grow in their relationship with the Lord Develop Christ-like sisterhood 4. Traditions (5 minutes) Begin memorizing Romans 15:5-6 as a group Give them each a card with the verse on it 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (15 minutes) Use PowerPoint and Video Big Ideas Complete appropriate section of notes page: The sorority is named Sisters for the Lord. The Greek letters used to symbolize this are Sigma Phi Lambda (Phi Lamb). Our name Sisters for the Lord reflects our identity as daughters of the King and sisters with one another. The Greek letters used to symbolize our name are Sigma Phi Lambda (Phi Lamb) which is the basis for our symbol, the lamb. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3 Our symbol is the lamb. Our colors are red, which symbolizes Christ s blood, and white, which symbolizes purity. Our sole purpose is to glorify God and make His Name great. This is done by providing a source of fellowship to Christian women who sincerely seek to know His person, His will, and His ways. Sigma Phi Lambda is an organization of sisters for the Lord where fellowship with our most high God is fostered by growth in unity with one another. The purpose comes from the name, for the Lord". Col 3:23, Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord. Each event that is planned and decision that is made should be done so with this purpose in mind. Because of this purpose, Sigma Phi Lambda is not presently, nor will it ever be Panhellenic. Although there is nothing wrong with Panhellenic sororities, we choose to abide by God s rules instead of the rules set by a secular organization. Instead Sigma Phi Lambda is a national organization that is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of five women who are all alumnae of Sigma Phi Lambda. The sorority verse is Romans 15:5-6: May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. There are currently 29 active chapters. You can find your chapter s Greek letters (to go on the notes page) in the list of current chapters below: University of Texas at Austin-Alpha Chapter, est Austin, TX Texas A&M University-Beta Chapter, est College Station, TX Texas Tech University-Gamma Chapter, est Lubbock, TX Stephen F. Austin University-Delta Chapter, est Nacogdoches, TX Texas State University-Epsilon Chapter, est San Marcos, TX Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 5

6 Southwestern University-Zeta Chapter, est Georgetown, TX Houston Baptist University-Eta Chapter, est Houston, TX Baylor University-Theta Chapter, est Waco, TX University of Oklahoma-Mu Chapter, est Norman, OK University of Florida-Nu Chapter, est Gainesville, FL Tarleton State University-Omicron Chapter, est Stephenville, TX University of Arkansas-Tau Chapter, est Fayetteville, AR University of North Texas-Upsilon Chapter, est Denton, TX Oklahoma State University-Phi Chapter, est Stillwater, OK University of Missouri at Columbi a (Mizzou)-Chi Chapter, est Columbia, MO Mississippi State University-Psi Chapter, est Starksville, MS University of Central Oklahoma-Omega Chapter, est Edmond, OK University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) -Alpha Alpha Chapter, est Oxford, MS University of Central Florida-Alpha Beta Chapter, est Orlando, FL Vanderbilt University-Alpha Gamma Chapter, est Nashville, TN University of Tennessee at Knoxville Alpha Zeta Chapter, est Knoxville, TN University of Central Arkansas Alpha Eta Chapter, est Conway, AR Louisiana State University Alpha Theta Chapter, est Baton Rouge, LA Auburn University Alpha Mu Chapter, est. 2012, Auburn, AL Henderson State University Alpha Xi, est. 2013, Arkadelphia, AR Southern Methodist University Alpha Omicron, est. 2014, Dallas, TX Louisiana Tech University Alpha Pi, est. 2015, Ruston, LA University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Alpha Rho, est. 2016, Chattanooga, TN Texas Christian University Alpha Sigma, est. 2017, Fort Worth, TX Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (10 minutes) Romans 15:5-6 Acknowledge the diversity in the group (ages, hometowns, denominations, ethnicities) but recognize our unity comes through Christ Focus on following Christ individually and corporately. Share and discuss: o What does following Christ look like? Individually? Corporately? o What are some practical ways we can do that well in our daily lives? 7. Review & Application (20 minutes) Review traditions and big ideas Practice saying Romans 15:5-6 Make a quick video to send to the New Member class at your sister chapter (Ask the president who this is) minute Testimonies (10 minutes) Memory Verses: Romans 15:5-6 Week Two What We Believe Part I Members of Sigma Phi Lambda come from a variety of faith backgrounds and denominations. As you prepare to discuss the beliefs that unite us as members of Sigma Phi Lambda and as believers, remember to keep the focus on the common denominator: Jesus Christ. It is your job as the facilitator of the group to steer the group towards unity and redirect should any quarrelsome talk occur. Pray for wisdom and discernment as you dive into these Scriptures with your group. In each New Member group you may have girls who do not yet understand what it means to have a relationship with Christ, as well as girls who have been walking with Him most of their lives. Because of this diversity, it is important that you address the basics of what it means to have a relationship with Christ and allow more mature believers opportunities to share. Whole Group Elements: Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 6

7 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) Vision Focus: Equipping New Members to grow in their relationship with the Lord As we talk about Jesus, we will be focusing on the foundations of what we believe as Christians because: o We have members who are just learning what it means to follow Christ and others who are more mature in Christ o o We come from many different denominations No matter how many times we have heard these basic truths, we all can do a better job of living out what we believe, so reminders are helpful. 4. Tradition (5 minutes) Prayer Groups Purpose: To have different groups who pray for Phi Lamb every day of the week and lift up one another through prayer. Also, prayer groups provide spiritual accountability and help to build relationships among members in a small-group setting. What the prayer time should consist of: PRAYER/PRAISES A. For Phi Lamb (i.e. growth, unity, leadership, goals, purpose, events, etc.) B. Sisters sharing about their different needs and praying for those needs: 1. Spiritual 2. Emotional 3. Physical 4. Other 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (15 minutes) What We Believe 1.0 Big Ideas Our statement of beliefs is the Apostles Creed. It is one of the oldest and most unifying statements of faith in the history of the Christian faith. Some New Members will come from a tradition where they have said the Apostles Creed every Sunday of their lives. Others will have never heard it. However, when we read through it, we quickly see that it covers the basics of Christianity as recognized by believers. I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, in the holy catholic* Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen *The word catholic is used in this context to mean universal. Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (10 minutes) Often in our study of Scripture, we lose sight of the fact that it is one connected narrative all aiming toward our relationship with God. The Apostles Creed is a great reminder of the whole story. The most exciting part of the story is that we play a part in moving it forward today. We can view this story as a drama in 5 acts: Act One: Creation o In the beginning God created us in His image to live in relationship with Him. Act Two: The Fall Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 7

8 o Humans enjoyed communion with God initially, but God gave us free will. In our free will, humans decided that they wanted to experiment with making our own choices apart from God. It was this self-centeredness that separated us from God. Act Three: Israel o God calls Abraham and all his descendants into relationship with Him. They suffer under the Egyptians, and God delivers them through Moses. He makes an everlasting covenant with them on Mt. Sinai and leads them through the wilderness to the Promised Land. They continue to worship idols and make selfish choices. God continues to pursue the Israelites throughout this time, even in their rebellion, to ask them to return to Him. Act Four: Jesus Christ o God chooses to come to earth in human form to restore humanity to Himself. Jesus rejects the legalism and vindictive judgment of the religious leaders of the time and instead teaches love, grace, and forgiveness, inviting the outsiders to come to God. The religious leaders have Jesus crucified. He dies on the cross and is raised from the dead to restore our relationship to God. He offers us forgiveness for our sins and a new life in Him. Act Five: Our Role o Not only did Christ s death and resurrection transform His original followers, but it has the power to transform us today. After Christ returned to heaven, He gave us the Holy Spirit, which fills believers and allows us to be the Body of Christ here today. We are called to be His hands and feet here on earth, loving others as He loves them and sharing the good news of the gospel, so that they can live out their part in the story as well. 7. Review & Application (10 minutes) Matching Activity with Scripture and the Apostles Creed (See NME Resources) I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. Isaiah 45:5 I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Luke 1:35 The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. Acts 4:10 then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. 1 Peter 3:18b-20a... He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. Mark 16:19 After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. He will come again to judge the living and the dead. John 5:22 Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son. I believe in the Holy Spirit, in the holy catholic* Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 8

9 John 15:26 When the Counselor comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father, he will testify about me. Questions for the group o What part of the Apostles Creed stood out to you? Why? o Who was already familiar with the Apostles Creed/use it in your church? o Why is it important that we all agree on a foundational statement of beliefs? o What about the things that aren t included in the Apostles Creed? Why not? minute Testimonies (20 minutes) Possible Memory Verses: Isaiah 45:5 Week Three What We Believe Part II Although there is no specific formula in following Christ, there are several practices that help us connect to Him. These practices are the fruit from a heart that is being changed by God and not meant to be a mere to-do list. Remember that girls in your group might come with a wide variety of experiences and understandings, and we want to help make these spiritual practices understood by all. Whole Group Elements: 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) Vision Focus: Equipping New Members to grow in their relationship with the Lord As we talk about Jesus, we will be focusing on the foundations of what we believe as Christians because: o We have members who are just learning what it means to follow Christ and others who are more mature in Christ o o We come from many different denominations No matter how many times we have heard these basic truths, we all can do a better job of living out what we believe, so reminders are helpful. 4. Tradition (5 minutes) CABLE Groups History: Cable Groups originated from a devotional on Christian relationships given by Jamie (Barry) Mann on April 4, 1994 at an Alpha chapter (University of Texas) meeting. The name came from an acronym. The letters stand for: CARRY: Carry each other s burdens. Know what others are doing: be there for them and pray for them. Restore your friends gently. Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:1-2 ACCEPT: Accept one another. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and one mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. Romans 15:5-7 BUILD: Build one another up. Forgive one another. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:29-32 LOVE: A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35 Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 9

10 ENCOURAGE: See to it brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly to till the end the confidence we had at first. Hebrews 3:12-14 SHARPEN: As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17 CABLES: Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: if one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cable of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Purpose: The constitution states that part of the meeting will consist of group prayer and a time of sharing. Because of our large size and time constraints, small groups allow time for each girl to share and pray at each meeting. Many chapters use CABLE groups periodically throughout the semester to discuss the devo and pray for one another. 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (15 minutes) What We Believe 2.0 Big Ideas Prayer is our means of communicating with God. Worship is our way of declaring that God is worthy of our praise. Bible study is crucial for every believer s training in Christ. Fellowship with one another allows us to minister to one another and receive Christ s love through others. Connection to God Prayer As believers, we have been called into a personal relationship with God, which requires communication. Prayer is our means of connecting to God and communicating with Him. When we come to God with our requests we can do so with confidence being sure that He will answer us in accordance with His will. Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Hebrews 4:16 Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Worship Another avenue that we use to communicate with God is through our worship. Simply put, worship is declaring that God is worthy of our praise. Worship may involve singing, speaking, listening or creating something that points to how great our God is. Worship is our response to what God is doing in our lives and draws us closer to Him. 1 Peter 2:9 "You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light" Hebrews 13:15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise the fruit of lips that confess his name. Bible Study Through studying the Bible we are able to learn the character of God, the history of our faith and become equipped to serve God. Bible study can be both individual and corporate. Because the Bible is living and active, each time we read it we might receive a unique Word from God that rebukes, corrects or trains so that we are equipped for His purpose. Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 10

11 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Psalm 119: 9-11 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Connection to Other Believers God intends for us to be in relationship with Him as well as with other believers. When we meet together we are able to remind each other of God s promises, pray for one another and hold each other accountable. We are called to be the physical hands and feet of Jesus to one another especially to those who are struggling or hurting. Through fellowship God allows us the privilege of speaking truth in love, praying for healing and calling forth the best in others. Hebrews 10:25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (5 minutes) Living What You Believe James 1:22 Be doers of the word Matthew 7:24-27 Doing what Christ commands provides a firm foundation. 7. Review & Application (20 minutes) Silent Discussion Activity (See NME Resources) Silent Discussion Directions for New Member Educators: Each of the following discussion question will be on a separate page: *What is a time your faith was strengthened through an answered prayer? *Practically what does worship look like in your life? *What do you find most comforting or challenging about studying Scripture? *Have you ever had a time that you felt particularly supported by the Body of Christ? Each person in your NM Small Group will get one question, with no one having the same question as the next three people. NMs will read the question on their page, think about their response, and then write it on their paper. Give 2-4 minutes for girls to respond to the question. When the time is up, allow girls to finish the sentence they re writing, and then pass their paper to the right. Repeat steps 3-5, allowing girls to read what the person before them has written, and either adding to what they wrote, asking a question, or responding with their own thoughts. The rotating should happen 3 times to allow NMs to be able to respond to each of the four questions. NMs do not need to write their names with their responses on each page, simply responding will hopefully allow NMs to be open, honest, and thoughtful. When your group has worked through all four questions, ask each question out loud and allow girls to respond out loud with what they answered to their question, or what someone else wrote, using the completed pages as a guide minute Testimonies (20 minutes) Possible Memory Verses: Philippians 4:6-7 Week Four- Who We Are Whole Group Elements: 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 11

12 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) Vision Focus: Equipping new members to embody the identity and purpose of Phi Lamb. Understand our role in Phi Lamb See how we fit into the larger structure of Phi Lamb 4. Tradition (10 minutes) Teach New Members the Phi Lamb Shuffle to Shackles (Praise You) by Mary Mary 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (15 minutes) Who We Are Big Ideas Five elected officers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the chapter. Each chapter also has a variety of appointed officers to assist the elected officers in fulfilling their duties. Chapters are supervised by an Alumnae Council and/or a Regional Director. Once a chapter is old enough to have officers who are alumnae, an Alumnae Council of no more than three former officers can be established. The Alumnae Council works with the Regional Director and chapter officers to oversee administrative issues and offer prayer, support, and encouragement to the officers. They are the primary source of guidance for the chapter. A Regional Director is assigned to each chapter and she acts as the liaison between the officers (or the Alumnae Council, if one has been established) and the national organization. She assists, encourages, directs, and supervises the chapters assigned to her. Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc., our national organization, is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of five women who are all alumnae of Sigma Phi Lambda. The Board of Directors is responsible for directing the national organization and setting the vision for the future. Because of this role, they are responsible for making any changes to our national constitution. The Executive Director helps oversee the operations of the national organization, supervises the Regional Directors, and assists the Board of Directors with special projects Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (10 minutes) Romans 13:1 1 Peter 5:2-3 God has called and placed all Phi Lamb leaders in their positions. Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 12

13 They serve as shepherds whose primary focus is caring for the flock. Even though leaders sometimes have to make hard decisions, we are called to trust them and submit to their leadership. 7. Review & Application (10 minutes) Choose Your Corner Activity to review responsibilities and roles for officers/ac/rd/board (See NME Resources) 1. Each corner of the room/area should be assigned a category/group of people, and labeled accordingly. The categories/groups are: Officers, Alumnae Council, Regional Director, and Board of Directors. 2. Each New Member will receive a card with a descriptor on it and will decide which group the card describes. For example, a card that says, Oversees the daily operations of the chapter would belong in the Officers corner since it describes the role of the officers. 3. Once in their corners, NMs should make sure that no one else in their corner has a card that says the exact same thing as theirs. If they do, one of those NMs should find another corner where that description also applies (this will happen, as some job descriptions are the same between ACs/RDs, etc.) 4. When planning this activity, make note of how many total cards there are (before cutting them apart, and shuffling them, they will be in order of category), and decide with your other NMEs if this activity will be done best as a whole group instead of small group based on the number of people in your New Member class. 5. If you will be doing this activity in your NM Small Groups, make sure that copies of the cards are made, cut, and shuffled up before your NM Meeting minute Testimonies (20 minutes) Possible Memory Verse: 1 Peter 5:2 Week Five Fun & Fellowship We would love for the New Member class to take a break from learning this week and just focus on getting to know one another better through a fun activity. As New Member Educators, you may choose something appropriate for your group. Some ideas include: a photo scavenger hunt on campus, making a craft together, competing as New Member small groups in fun games against each other, etc. Week Six Membership Requirements Whole Group Elements: 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) Vision Focus: Equipping new members to develop Christ-like sisterhood Building community begins with being present for one another Involves investing in and receiving from others 4. Tradition (5 minutes) Big/Little Sis Purpose: To pair New Members of Phi Lamb with active members of Phi Lamb so that they will feel more integrated into the group. Our prayer is that big/little sis is a genuine relationship that fosters growth and transparency. It is not only an Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 13

14 opportunity for the big sis to invest in her little sis, but the little sis will also be able to encourage and support her big sis at times. What is a big sis? A big sister is an active member of Phi Lamb who will serve as a mentor and immediate friend for a New Member What is a little sis? A little sister is a New Member. After the New Member semester is over, a little sis still has her big sister but is now eligible to have a little sister of her own. What are twins? Twins occur when an active member has two little sisters. 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (20 minutes) Big Ideas It is crucial for each new member to be aware of exactly what is expected of Phi Lamb members, both as New Members and actives. It might be a good idea to bring in the secretary to talk to New Members about membership requirements. Article XIII Membership Requirements: Sorority members may be classified as new member, active, inactive, or alumnae. In order to be a new member, she must abide by the following standards. Any new member who fails to meet these requirements will not be initiated unless extenuating circumstances are approved by the Alumnae Council, Regional Director and/or the Board of Directors prior to initiation. 1. She must be under the covering of or seeking a church home. 2. She must be actively involved in a Bible study. Sorority meetings do not provide adequate study of the scriptures necessary for Christian growth. 3. She must pay dues to Sigma Phi Lambda. 4. She must meet her meeting and special events point requirements as outlined in each semester s Membership Attendance Agreement. Meetings: Chapter Meetings New Member Meetings Prayer Group Meetings: Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful Col. 4:2 Special Events: New Member Retreat Induction Chapter Retreat Prayer Evening(s) Service Event(s) Outreach Event Philanthropy/World Vision Event Alumnae Event Initiation In order to be an active member must abide by the following standards. 1. She must be under the covering of or seeking a church home. 2. She must be actively involved in a Bible study. Sorority meetings do not provide adequate study of the scriptures necessary for Christian growth. 3. She must pay semester dues to Sigma Phi Lambda. 4. She must meet her meeting and special events point requirements as outlined in each semester s Membership Attendance Agreement. Meetings: Chapter Meetings Weekly Prayer Meetings: Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful Col. 4:2 Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 14

15 Special Events: Recruitment Induction Chapter Retreat Prayer Evening(s) Service Event(s) Outreach Event Philanthropy/World Vision Event Alumnae Event Initiation Any exceptions to the point requirements will be reviewed by the Regional Director. The Board of Directors reserves the right to revoke the membership of any member who is disruptive to the organization. To further clarify the new member membership requirements, please reference the following: 1. She must be under the covering of or seeking a church home. If there are questions about whether a church is Christian or meets this requirement, please see the officers immediately for information about the Approved Church Policy. 2. She must be actively involved in a Bible study. Sorority meetings do not provide adequate study of the scriptures necessary for Christian growth. This outside Bible study can take many different forms. However, it must be a study or group dedicated specifically to the study of Scripture outside of Phi Lamb chapter, prayer group, or new member meetings. 3. She must meet her meeting and special event points requirements. In order to be initiated this semester and remain active in future semesters, she must meet her meeting and special events point requirements as outlined in each semester s Membership Attendance Agreement. It is helpful to have a handout for the New Members identifying these requirements along with the dates and/or opportunities specific to your chapter. The secretary will most likely have this prepared before recruitment, so please consult with her to get a current copy. Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (10 minutes) Hebrews 10: Peter 4:8 7. Review & Application- (15 minutes) I Have Who has? Activity to review membership requirements (See NME Resources) 1.Distribute one card to each New Member. Evenly distribute the extras to the New Members if you have cards to spare. Be sure that someone doesn t have the card that answers another card they have. 2. Each card has a question and an answer, but the answer is not for that particular question. As you distribute the cards, encourage New Members to begin thinking about what the question for their card on the I have... side might be, so that they are prepared to answer. 3. When all cards are distributed, select a New Member to begin by reading her whole card. Play continues until the game loops back to the original card. 4. Cards can be collected and reshuffled as time permits. Write encouraging cards to Big Sis Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 15

16 8. 10-minute Testimonies (10 minutes) Possible Memory Verses: Hebrews 10:23 Week Seven - Elected and Appointed Officers Whole Group Elements: 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) Vision Focus: Equipping new members to develop Christ-like sisterhood In leadership positions we have the opportunity to serve our sisters We are all called to servant leadership 4. Tradition (5 minutes) Prayer Evenings Purpose: To provide an opportunity for Phi Lamb to pray as a group for their chapter, campus, community, or other special causes. Frequency: Prayer evenings should be held at least twice a semester. The chaplain plans these, and the evening is specifically focused on prayer and generally incorporates some sort of theme. Suggestions for prayer evening themes: PRAYER/PRAISES A. For Phi Lamb (i.e. growth, unity, leadership, goals, purpose, events, etc.) B. For our sisters needs C. For the campus D. For special missions trips, projects, or ventures E. For the nation, military, natural disaster, etc. F. Thanksgiving for God s attributes G. Anything else you feel led to center the evening around 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (20 minutes) Big Ideas- Officer Responsibilities President: Oversee chapter operations and the duties of all officer positions. Serve as an ambassador on behalf of the chapter to the university, Phi Lamb leadership, and the community. Supervise the appointed officer positions of: New Member Educators, Alumnae Representative, and others as appropriate to your chapter. Oversee new member meetings, new member events, Recruitment, new member retreats, and new member training. Coordinate and direct officer meetings, regular chapter meetings, and initiation. Vice President: Coordinate and direct all social functions for your chapter. Ensure that all parties and events fall within the nature and purpose of Phi Lamb. Oversee the appointed officer positions of: Recruitment chairs, Social and T-Shirt Chairs, and others as appropriate to your chapter. Oversee design and order of t-shirts. Secretary: Maintain attendance records for: meetings, Bible study, church, prayer group, prayer evenings, retreats, Recruitment, new member meetings, etc. Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 16

17 Coordinate service projects. Verify the enrollment of all active members each semester. Oversee the appointed officer positions of: Community Service Chair, Attendance Appointed Officers and other as appropriate to your chapter. Treasurer: Manage all financial matters for the chapter including budgets, dues, payments, and financial records. Use Billhighway for financial recordkeeping. Ensure compliance with all IRS regulations applicable to nonprofit organizations. Oversee the appointed officers positions of: Philanthropy Chair and others as appropriate to your chapter. Chaplain: Monitor the spiritual health of the chapter. This includes assisting members in fulfilling their responsibilities of church attendance, Bible study attendance, and prayer group/evening attendance and various activities within the chapter. Organize or delegate worship and devotionals for weekly meetings and events. Oversee and implement prayer related activities including: prayer partners, prayer groups, prayer evenings. Plan all chapter retreats. Coordinate all outreach events on campus. Oversee the appointed officer positions of: Worship Chair, Prayer Group Leaders, and others as appropriate to your chapter. Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (10 minutes) Ephesians 2:10 Romans Review & Application (15 minutes) Write encouraging letters to officers/appointed officers Pray for officers/appointed officers minute Testimonies (10 minutes) Possible Memory Verse: Matthew 20:26 Week Eight Phi Lamb History Whole Group Elements: 1. Ice Breaker (10 minutes) 2. Open in Prayer 3. Cast Vision (5 minutes) Vision Focus: Equipping new members to embody the identity and purpose of Phi Lamb It is important to understand the origins of Phi Lamb and heart of its founders and how we carry that story forward today. 4. Tradition (5 minutes) Prayer Partners Prayer Partners have been designed to foster unity in the chapter. Every semester (or more often, if you choose), the officers may match each lady with a new prayer partner. Then during the semester/month period the partners should arrange one time to meet with one another for an hour to share prayer requests and pray for each other. Meeting for lunch on campus or going to get ice cream or coffee for an hour can be good ways to meet. Through prayer partners, members will get to know each other better. Also, more individual needs are being addressed and prayed for. This is a Phi Lamb tradition that should be carried on. 5. Phi Lamb Foundation (15 minutes) Big Ideas Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 17

18 New Members should understand the basics of Phi Lamb history on a national level and at the chapter level. The following pages are designed as a handout covering national history. In addition, you will receive a PowerPoint in your NME Resources with information and images to help convey the history of Phi Lamb. Small Group Elements: 6. Devo (10 minutes) Hebrews 12:1-3 Phi Lamb has a rich spiritual heritage, and we are tasked with carrying that forward. 7. Review & Application (15 minutes) LAMBO (Review BINGO) or similar game to review Phi Lamb history (See NME Resources) minute Testimonies (20 minutes) Possible Memory Verse: Hebrews 12:1 Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 18

19 Phi Lamb history FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU, DECLARES THE LORD, PLANS TO PROSPER YOU AND NOT TO HARM YOU, PLANS TO GIVE YOU A HOPE AND A FUTURE. JEREMIAH 29:11 The Vision Phi Lamb was formed with a vision of creating a sorority that exists for the sole purpose of glorifying God and making His name great on college campuses across the nation. The Beginning Sigma Phi Lambda, Sisters for the Lord, was prayerfully founded in 1988 at the University of Texas at Austin by a group of women who envisioned a sorority that would provide Christian fellowship on the UT campus. The five founders were Patricia Adams Hogan, Robin Maedgen, Gina Williams Goveas, Jacqueline Goveas, and Eileen Howell Barlow. They drafted the original constitution that defined the purpose, structure, and day-to- day running of the sorority and its requirements for membership. They were then joined by eight charter members: Deana Clary, Bonnie Collins Turner, Jennifer Ford Borger, Julie Heflin Ertl, Debbie Hoehner, Kathleen Sullivan Kimbrough, Julie Trevino Mannella, and April Williams Murphy. With God s help, these thirteen women created the organization that today we know as Phi Lamb. Expansion and Growth When the founders and charter members were creating and living Phi Lamb, they never dreamed how large the organization would become. Phi Lamb currently has 29 chapters all over the nation, and is continually growing. Phi Lamb s Executive Director receives a constant stream of requests for information on how to start new chapters at campuses throughout the country. These prospective chapters go through an extensive process in order to bring Sigma Phi Lambda to their school, and each year Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. we initiate a few new chapters at the Officer Training Retreat. 19

20 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6 TRADITIONS: Old and New BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Board of Directors exists to offer guidance and direction to all chapters of Sigma Phi Lambda by ensuring that the original vision of the sorority and the parameters of the Constitution of Sigma Phi Lambda are being upheld. The Board was formed in 1997 as the Alumnae Board and the name changed to Board of Directors in The Board is made up of five alumnae from various chapters who work to set national vision and policy and keep Phi Lamb running smoothly. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Executive Director position was put in place in The ED is an employee of the Board of Directors and serves as an ambassador for the organization. She is responsible for communication with potential chapters, updating and facilitating the Board of Directors, assisting in planning the Officer Training Retreat, and overseeing chapter administration. The Continuing Nature and Purpose of Phi Lamb There have been a number of changes in the structure of Phi Lamb at the national level due to the growth we have experienced. Through all the changes that Phi Lamb has experienced in the last 20 years, its purpose remains the same: to REGIONAL DIRECTORS Regional Directors serve as chapter administrators. They oversee the chapter officers and Alumnae Council for all chapters in a given region. ALUMNAE COUNCILS Alumnae Councils were first formed in 2002 to assist sorority chapter officers with issues regarding budget and calendar and other issues where help or advice would be needed. There are approximately 50 alumnae council members nationwide. For this reason, we look forward to bringing Phi Lamb to more campuses in the future, so that many more women can carry out this purpose as they experience the joy and growth that comes from having consistent fellowship A portion of our history that is the most unique and special is our traditions. In Phi Lamb we cherish and embrace those traditions that began over 20 years ago! Sisterhood has been reflected throughout Phi Lamb in so many ways, but our traditions were what truly established the vision of our founders. o COLORS-Red & White To represent The Blood of Christ and Purity o SYMBOL-The Lamb o Based on our nickname "Phi Lamb" and Psalm 100:3 o BIG SIS & LIL SIS o Active members act as Big Sisters to the New Members. o CABLE GROUPS o Small groups that operate within chapter meetings, used for discussion, prayer, etc. o THE ENGAGEMENT CIRCLE o Our own way of honoring the ladies who become engaged while glorify our Lord Jesus Christ and make His with Christian sisters during their college members name great. years. O PRAYER PARTNERS o An accountability system set up for For this reason since the day we heard about you we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual spending quality time with another wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy Phi Lamb to pray and get to know of the Lord and you may please Him in every way: Bearing fruit in every good work, each other better. growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints and the kingdom of light." Colossians 1:9-12 Sigma Phi Lambda, Inc. 20