Which Way Is "Up"?Here's a small-group axiom so obviously true that it's easy to dismiss: Early on in your efforts to launch, or re-launch, your small-group ministry, create a very specific description of what you want to have happen within those groups. A reasonable... Likes [3]Comments [0] TAGS: small group vision, getting started, small group leadership
Growing Together Across the GenerationsDespite the church's desire to strengthen the family, spiritual formation activities tend to take place in segregated "silos" in most churches. The children's ministry, the student ministry, the college ministry, the singles ministry, the... Likes [10]Comments [4] TAGS: intergenerational small groups, family groups, getting started
3 Easy Keys to (Re-)ConnectingEvery fall, we come back with a big push to get people to join a small group. Small groups are a vital aspect of building community in our churches. Nonetheless, it can be awkward to join a small group. For that matter, it can be just as awkward... Likes [6]Comments [1] TAGS: small group health, getting started, small group leadership, small group experiences
Phasing It InOnce you’ve established your purpose, vision and goals you’re ready to go public. Successful ministry—in fact, much of what succeeds—must be given away. And giving it away means sharing it with others. From the smallest business venture to the largest... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, getting started
From S.M.A.R.T. to S.M.A.R.T.E.R.In our last article, we looked at the importance of setting S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timed) goals. S.M.A.R.T. goals can give you a framework upon which to build a ministry that accomplishes your purpose and advances... Likes [1]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, getting started
Get S.M.A.R.T.If you’ve been following this series of articles, you should by now have established the purpose for small groups in your church, and identified a visionary and your vision for small groups. And now you’re ready for the next step. See how easy that... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, getting started
What's the Vision?The King James Version of the Bible renders the first half of Proverbs 29:18 this way, “Where there is no vision the people perish.” Over the years this verse has been used and abused, but the very first time it came to my attention was in a small... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, getting started