Small Group Guide

Suggestions for an effective Small Group:
Ensure the room or venue is comfortable for all and conducive to a group discussion.  There is sufficient seating, any materials are prepared in advance and provided to each member; meeting location, time and directions have been communicated in advance.

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The leader has each member’s contact information - name, email, phone number.  The group decides who will be responsible for communications to members - meeting reminders, materials distribution, etc.  This can be the leader or, in an effort to share responsibilities, another Small Group member.

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Have members introduce themselves and ask them to share what they wish to get out of being in a Small Group.  Perhaps prepare an ice-breaker question to help members get to know each other personally.

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Decide how often the group will meet and for how long.  This may be a function of the group’s focus (e.g., a short-term study; a weekly hike; a once-monthly dinner discussion).  Understand that each member may not be able to attend each meeting but work to ensure most members can meet most meetings.

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As a group, decide who or how topics for discussion will be chosen (if the Small Group has not been formed around a specific topic).  Consider rotating responsibility for leading a discussion as a way to vary the meeting routine and have all contribute.

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Once the original purpose or focus of the Small Group has ended, decide if the group will continue to meet, adopt another focus and/or change format and frequency of meetings.    Review what worked and what could be improved in order to ensure continued success and satisfaction among the members.

 

Group Dynamics

When leading a group discussion, be prepared with specific questions related to the topic in order to elicit a deeper discussion.  Also, consider letting others share their thoughts and reflections before you as the leader share yours.

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Accept the occasional prolonged silence during a group discussion.  Sometimes people need time to put their thoughts in order; sometimes the silence will encourage quieter members to contribute to the discussion.  After someone has spoken, take time to reflect instead of immediately filling the space with words.

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Work to engender trust among members so that thoughts and ideas can be shared without judgment or fear of criticism.  Remember that members have joined a Small Group to connect with others and to nourish their faith.  Whether as a leader or participant, ensure everyone is heard, respected and supported.  Respond to others with honest, open questions.  Emphasize confidentiality -- what is shared in the group will remain in the group, and not passed on to others without clear permission. 

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