One of the most important things you can do is be part of a small group. New groups connect more people than existing groups. Whether they are believers or do not know Christ, new people are more likely to come to a group with other new people as it is easier to get connected and form new relationships.
New small groups also matter for personal growth. Discipleship is relational, and small groups make it possible for a disciple-maker to know and understand the personal needs of their group members. For this reason, every new group creates the potential to develop new leaders who will be ideally positioned to start their own groups in the future.
We were made for the group. To dig in. To grow. To minister. Together. It’s part of His design. But starting new groups is not easy. You have to be intentional in your actions.
Starting new groups requires a catalyst—and you are that catalyst! You must have the vision for reaching new women and be willing to do the hard work it takes to make it happen. Here are simple steps to start a new group:
- Pray. Pray for God to lead you to who you need to reach, assimilate, and disciple. Pray for God to call others to help you start a group. Pray for existing groups to support you in the creation of your new group by praying and releasing members to go with you. Ask God to bring awareness to people who are not participating in a group of their need to get involved and for relationships with others.
- Identify your target. Who does the group intend to reach? Young women? Single moms? Students? Working moms? What segment of your congregation or community doesn’t fit into existing small groups? Is there an age span that is too wide? Who attends worship but does not have a group that is designed for her?
- Select your study. Use resources that address both the needs of people you are trying to reach and your abilities as a leader.
- Develop a list of possible group members. Gather information of potential members and contact them. Think of women who are not currently connected to a group.
- Select a start date & location. New groups can start at any time. Most groups meet in homes, but your group may want to meet at a park or a coffee shop or some other place.
- Start with a party. Plan an interest party or casual dinner. Many people interested in a new group want to make new friends. Offering a fellowship before the start of a new group allows women to get to know each other on a personal level. Share about the new group and invite participants to attend.
- Host the first gathering. Be prepared to teach and lead the best lesson you possibly can. Allow time for women to share what’s happening in their lives and close with prayer.
- Evaluate, encourage, and celebrate. Evaluate the process, encourage your group, and celebrate as you grow. Follow up immediately and frequently with guests to build relationships. Lead your group to do life together—share meals once in a while and participate in ministry projects.
- Enlist and train additional leaders. As the group grows, enlist and train additional small group leaders, especially an apprentice. Train your apprentice to be able to start and lead a new group, or assume leadership of the existing group while you start a new group.
For additional information and to register new groups, visit groupsmatter.com.
Adapted from groupsmatter.com/launch.
By Rick Howerton, Lifeway Small Groups Specialist
