Redemption Group is an intensive Bible-based discipleship program for men and women who desire to experience freedom and to pursue a deeper walk with Christ through His redemptive work on the cross. Jeremiah 17:9 states, “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately sick; who can understand it?” In Redemption Group, space is created to explore the deeper issues of the heart through honest reflection, gospel truth, and spiritual formation—trusting that real change happens from the inside out. In Redemption Group, participants discover that Jesus Christ alone is the answer to the above question— bringing redemption not only for our own sin, but also for the pain and brokenness we experience in a fallen world. Within a safe and grace-filled community, men and women walk together toward healing as they encounter the life-changing message of the Gospel. No matter the struggle—whether emotional, spiritual, relational, or behavioral—God’s grace meets each person with the power to heal, restore, and set them free.

Throughout the Redemption Group semester, we draw from two key resources. The primary curriculum is Soul Care: Seven Transformational Principles for a Healthy Soul by Dr. Rob Reimer, founder and president of Renewal Ministries International. We also incorporate select excerpts from The Practicing the Way Course by John Mark Comer and the Practicing the Way team, which deepen our journey through additional spiritual formation practices. We conclude the semester by developing a personal Rule of Life—a practical and prayerful framework to carry us forward as we continue growing in Christ through spiritual formation.

When joining Redemption Group, each participant signs a commitment indicating their desire to grow in Christ and their dedication to the rhythm of weekly lessons, readings, and meetings. The weekly homework invites sincere reflection and spiritual growth through engaging with audio or video teachings, completing readings, and meditating on scripture.

Participants commit to:

• Weekly homework

• Regular attendance at weekly group meetings

• Weekly connection with an assigned mentor

• Participation in two, 24-hour retreats - the Formation retreat at the beginning of the semester and the Deliverance retreat near the end of the semester.

Mentors are a vital component to a successful journey in Redemption Group. Each man and woman in the program will be assigned a same-gender mentor whose role is to walk closely with that individual - to encourage and pray for him/her. While a mentor is encouraged to attend the weekly meetings, he/she will be available primarily to regularly connect with the Redemption Group participant (meet one-on-one, phone call, email, etc.) and to hold him/her accountable to the different facets of the program. A specific mentor will be assigned to each participant by the time the session begins.

Redemption Group is a one-semester commitment offered twice a year. The fall semester meets at Spring Grove Alliance Church. The spring semester meets at York Alliance Church. Every session of Redemption Group is open to everyone who is a part of the York Alliance Family of Churches. Each semester invites participants into a focused season of spiritual growth, healing, and transformation through weekly gatherings, personal reflection, and meaningful community.

Participant Schedule Commitments:

• Weekly group meetings on Wednesdays from 6:30-8:00 PM

• Weekly mentor connection

• Two Friday-Saturday retreats - one at the beginning of the semester and one near the end of the semester.

Each week begins with a time of connection as the whole group gathers to enjoy a snack and settle in during an informal welcome. A member of the leadership team then guides an opening activity—such as worship, prayer, or reflection—to help participants quiet their hearts, refocus on Jesus, and prepare for the evening. Following this, the group will watch a brief video clip that will “highlight”  a section of the teaching from the week’s material. 

The group will then separate into their same-gender groups (which will remain consistent through the entire semester) and a leader will give an overview and lead discussion of the week’s assigned material. This time allows each participant to reflect on their spiritual journey, share current struggles or experiences, and receive encouragement. Each weekly gathering is designed to be a safe, confidential space for honest conversation, mutual support, and prayer.