Small-Group ClosureWhile a lot of resources cover how to start small groups, you might not find much on how to end groups. Still, even good things often come to an end. So consider these four suggestions for how the small groups in your church can find closure. ... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, pastors corner
Small Groups: Remember to Reach OutDecades before churches were even beginning to think of small groups as we know them today, John L. Casteel wrote a book called Spiritual Renewal Through Personal Groups. In his book, Casteel chronicled the stories of seven churches that dreamed of a... Likes [0]Comments [1] TAGS: leadership, pastors corner
Common Recruiting MistakesIn my first church staff position as a minister to children, I asked my supervising pastor what the secret to success was for a great Vacation Bible School. He boldly replied, "Recruit, recruit, recruit, recruit! And when you can sneak up on them,... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, recruiting
Small Groups 101: Volunteer TrainingJesus maintained different levels of relationships in his earthly ministry. Like the pastor of one of today’s mega-churches, he preached to thousands at a time. Yet, like a small-group leader, he had a “fellowship circle” in the Twelve; young men he... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, training
Making the TransitionSeveral years ago while serving as pastor of Christian education and family ministries at Eastside Foursquare Church in Kirkland, Washington, Sharyn Spradlin started a small group ministry for her kids. "Small groups as a foundation for ministry to... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, small group health
The Small Group WindshieldIf you’ve never done this, then give it a try. Find a stretch of road without any oncoming traffic and while moving the speed limit, look AT the windshield. Now, no cheating. This will only take a second. Don’t look through the windshield, look at it.... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, training
Traffic Jam!Take a look at the five personalities that bog down a small group and see how you can keep discussion clipping along. Nothing bogs down a great discussion like a know-it-all or an over-the-top needy person. They have legitimate needs and a legitimate... Likes [0]Comments [0] TAGS: leadership, training