Discuss Small Group Models
Open Groups
How can our group keep a high level of intimacy and trust even though we are open to visitors and new members?
Total Reader Responses: 3 (see below)
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One author makes the argument that each of us has a limited number of "relational connectors". In other words, if we have already built a significant number of deeper relationships, we are hard pressed to engage in meaningful relationships with many new people- our "connectors" are used up. I've seen groups started with all new people become very successful, such as our New Members class. These folks already have in common the fact that they are "new", and it seems to help them "gel" together.
The group I'm in brings in more people by either the Small Group coordinator suggesting to the person or family to attend our young families small group. New people may also enter by seeing the group and asking if they can join. Then, of course we reiterate the Group Covenant, which highlights the confidentiality policies and keeping the group safe.
The group that I am in brings new people in by referral only. Basically if someone desires to join a small group, they get sent to one of the group members who will get to know if this is the right kind of group for this person. Tell the person what ages and types of people are in the group so that they will be sure this is right for them. Then they are invited to join (not visit). That way they decide right off the bat that this group is forthem. This keeps the group trustworthy and maintains the intimacy of sharing their personal lives. Thats what I really like about our small group. We feel secucre in the members.
