Discuss with Other Leaders
Starting or Restarting a Ministry
Our church tried to develop a small-groups ministry in the recent past, but the attempt failed. What should we keep in mind as we try again?
Total Reader Responses: 4 (see below)
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Hi Jessica, That is a legitimate concern. I recommend that you try "semi-closed" groups. This is where a group is considered "closed" during the semester when it is studying together. But then the church also designates "open" times during the year (usually January and August) when new members can join existing groups. This allows new people to join a group eventually, but also preserves the intimacy of a closed sysstem.
Our community group ministry is currently undergoing evaluation. We are functioning under the open group model, but are beginning to contemplate the closed group model. I am struggling with the closed model because I feel that seekers or church members can feel excluded and unwanted. Is this a legitmate concern, and if so, how can I move past it?
I agree prayer is vital. I also believe that is vital to learn from people who know what they are talking about. Read books, a lot of them! There are a ton of great authors and books which talk about small group strategy and various approaches to developing that type of ministry. I envy you being able to start from scratch. I came in with an established small group ministry. While it may seem good, its very difficult to initiate change in strategy with people who have established ideals on what small groups should be. Most importantly, make sure the whole church leadership is behind your efforts. Without their support it will be very difficult to establish the minitry you desire. God Bless you and your efforts!
Two of the most influential factors in small group success is prayer and leadership values. As John 15 says, "...apart from Jesus, we can do nothing..." If we have not prayed about our small group ministry, it is not likely to have the impact it could. Prayer can do much, but for small group ministry to permeate church culture, we also need key leadership to embrace the values of Christian community. If relational ministry is not part of the fabric of church leadership, and the value is taught and lived at the leadership level, then small groups are always going to be prone to be squeezed out by competing ministry pressures.
