Why Small Groups?
People grow in small groups! Churches grow because of small groups! Research says small groups are a key indicator of church health.

Does your church have small groups? More importantly, does your church have a vital small group ministry?

Small Groups That Thrive
An effective small group ministry that is connected to God grows people through

• prayer
• purpose
• vision
• freedom
• resources
• strategy
• a coaching team
• trained leaders
• a committed pastor

God is already at work growing people. Find out what God is up to. Then follow.

Small Group Surprises

One size does not fit all. A small group model designed to fit a rural church might not reproduce well in an urban church or a campus ministry. However, the small group principles do transfer.

Small groups are more than Bible study groups. Various types of groups meet the needs of people at different life stages—physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and so on.

People own the small groups they help create. Commitment to groups is strongest when leaders use their spiritual giftedness to form groups around needs, interests, passions, and life experiences.

It’s about growing people, not programs. Just as Jesus meets people where they are, small groups start where people are—not where the leader wants them to be. Small group leaders do not grow the group; God does that. Leaders listen, discern, and participate with the Holy Spirit to create the optimum conditions for people to grow.

Small groups keep changing. People change. Small groups are organic. Like a garden, a variety of people grow at the same time, but at different rates. People move from one season of life to another. The initial reason they joined a small group may no longer exist. Life changes.

Already Have a Small Group Ministry?
Ask these questions:

• Is your group growing—emotionally, spiritually, socially?
• What life changes have occurred since you joined?
• Is your group encountering difficulties?
• Can you describe your group’s purpose?
• Do you have a vision statement for your small group ministry?
• Do leaders feel supported and cared for?
• Have you considered designing a small group around a common interest?
• Do you ever dream of a small group you’d change your schedule for, but you’re unsure where to start?

Looking to Kick-Start Your Small Group Ministry?
Christian Reformed Home Missions can help. Small Group Ministry Developers are available in your area to consult with your church, train leaders and support teams, and help your small group ministry manage change and cultivate growth. They will tailor training for your specific situation. To connect with a Small Group Ministry Developer in your area, contact smallgroups@crcna.org.

Check Out These Small Group Training Options

Small Group Management Training
Small group ministry directors learn to set vision, assess the congregation and community, recruit and train leaders, and promote and sustain small group ministry.

Small Group Leader Training
Leaders and potential leaders are introduced to basic small group principles and types of groups as they explore ways to develop a small group around their gifts and passions. Available in Spanish.

Next Steps Small Group Leader Training
Leaders focus on personal and group health and explore how to multiply and start new groups. Available in Spanish.

Everyday Evangelism: Linking People to Jesus
Like links in a chain, God uses life events to form one’s faith journey. Learn ways you can participate with God in linking your friends to Jesus.

Coffee Break Small Group Training
Leaders learn how Coffee Break small groups change lives through uncompromising distinctives: Small Group Principles, Inductive Method and Evangelistic Purpose. Available in Korean.

Story Hour and Little Lambs Training
Children’s ministry leaders learn how to use two programs designed to introduce preschool children to God in an age-appropriate, fun way.

Call 800-266-2175 about training options, consultations, spiritual formation, prayer, retreats, and keynote speakers.

Need Small Group Resources?

Make Faith Alive Christian Resources your first stop!
www.FaithAliveResources.org
Sales@FaithAliveResources.org