5 ways to help small groups flourish in 2020

With September comes the beginning of small groups for many churches, and I hope that this is still the case this year!  Don’t let the current state of our world distract you from being able to gather your church for small group experiences this fall.  Because of the challenging times that we are facing, consider these actions as you get started.

1. Undergird your small group ministry in prayer. 

Call your leaders and your small group leaders together to pray specifically for this season’s small groups.  Pray for each church member and friend who attends, and ask the Lord to prepare their hearts and make them open and hungry to join a small group this fall. 

2. Have a plan for your small group ministry. 

Choose topics and curriculum that will meet the various needs of your people, and be ready to make an intentional and organized plan to recruit and encourage maximum participation.  Compellingly share the vision for your small group ministry and how it helps the body of Christ to become mature Christ followers. Focus on how small groups can bring unity during this time of being scattered and out of touch.

3. Deliver your small group experiences in different ways. 

We know that with this pandemic many of our church members have made the choice to stay away from in-person gatherings, and we need to support that choice by offering other ways to meet their need to be in community.  Some options might include smaller in-person gatherings outside or online opportunities.  In addition to these options, assure your folks that when meeting in-person, you are following state and federal safety protocols.  If you are going to offer an online option, be ready to give them the necessary tools and training to access this option.

4. Listen to people’s fears and concerns, and be ready to respond. 

Our people are in many different emotional places these days, and as leaders we must be willing to listen to them. Understanding their concerns helps us be ready to respond to their needs and continue to bring them into community in ways that will fit their needs and life circumstances.  If you find parents who are overwhelmed by helping their kids maneuver remote schooling, you might consider offering them an online group option that takes place after their children are in bed. Keep it brief while including a devotional thought, prayer and an opportunity to respond to what God is doing around them.  For seniors, you might find ways for them to meet outside for a picnic lunch and some spiritual conversation.  Use your imagination, and respond to the congregation’s suggestions.  You might not be able to meet every need, but you might be able to empower others to do so.

5. Above all, be kind and compassionate. 

Find ways to exercise kindness and compassion as you listen and respond, while challenging people to move forward (even if it means getting out of their comfort zone).

Don’t be overwhelmed. Make it your goal to start something, then be willing to monitor and adjust as needed in order to help the people in your church community connect and take ownership.  We can do this!

Sandy Coelho serves as lay leadership development coordinator at the Baptist Convention of New England.