1 Groups

When a small group begins, it is a time of excitement mixed with some trepidation. If the group is a brand new group with new individuals and new relationships to be formed, assume the pendulum may swing further to the trepidation side. Much further. Even if your group is simply starting a new year with the same members, there is a sense of anticipation that may create some anxiety. Because of this, do not overlook the opportunity you have to create a strong group dynamic from the first meeting.

Every small group needs to start strong. Be intentional about the activities of your first few weeks and you will find it paying off dividends down the road. Three things in particular I would focus on during my first month of group meetings.

Know Your People

First, know the people involved in your group. Do this in a couple of ways. On the one hand, take the time in your group to allow members of the group to share with one another. Too often we assume that because we go to church at the same place, we know one another. This is not always true, so go into your meetings with the idea that everyone is somewhat of a stranger.

Along with this, I would spend time as a group leader checking in with the individuals in your group. A quick email or text, just to follow up and say “Thanks for being a part of our group” will help that person know you really are excited for them to be making this journey with you. You might also encourage individuals to offer some feedback to you personally. Sometimes people are more willing to say “Here is what I am hoping to see in our group time” when they do not feel like they are going against the group’s collective wishes.

Develop a Covenant

This brings up the second thing I would do. Develop a covenant with your group during the first few meetings together. While a covenant may sound very formal, it is merely a way to state collective the desires each individual has for their involvement within the group and the goals they hope to see accomplished. I will write more about covenants later, but for now, know that individuals join a group for selfish reasons. They want to get something out of their time investment. If your group fails to live up to those expectations, individuals will pull away or even leave the group. This is not to say every expectation carries the same weight, but a covenant allows you to state clearly the purpose of your group. When individuals know those and have a hand in setting the expectations, they are better prepared for what is to come.

Find a Co-Leader

Last, I cannot encourage you enough to have a co-leader designated for your group. Even if your group is made up of individuals who all chip in and make sure things get done, a co-leader is invaluable for the ongoing health and longevity of this group and groups to come. For you as a leader, a co-leader gives you the opportunity to share in ministry with someone else. Doing so allows this person to grow in their own spiritual journey, to step in and help you not be overloaded, and to be ready to help lead another group as we attempt to provide more opportunities for individuals to be involved in the small group ministry.

Most importantly, a co-leader helps you be a better leader in your own right. They want to same goals as you do and are willing to work with you to make that happen. Having a co-leader may be more the willingness to add another person to your efforts at helping grow disciples within your group than it is about giving up roles and responsibilities.

Enjoy the first few weeks of group, especially the excitement of something new, but do not miss the opportunity to prepare your group for health and vitality for the long haul.