Your most powerful reentry ministry might be sitting in plain sight. Most congregational leaders are already aware of the transformative power of small group ministry. Over the last forty years, the small group movement has touched a whole range of congregational life, providing mutual support, fuel for spiritual growth, and opportunities for meaningful relationship-building. Chances are there’s already some kind of small group ministry happening in your congregation, whether it’s a Bible study, a friendship group, or a grief support group. Small group ministry can seem almost commonplace these days, which might leave you wondering why this can be such a big deal for reentry. Here’s why small groups are a great option for connecting with returning citizens. 1. You don’t need to create the demand. Lots of returning citizens are al- ready deeply into reading Scripture, and they want to keep growing when they’re released. They had a lot of time for reading while incarcerated, and chances are pretty good that the average returning citizen will be more biblically engaged than the average person in your pews. You need these people in your small groups. 2. Many returning citizens have dreamed of growing as leaders. Though, before, they may have used their leadership gifts in inappropriate ways, now they want to use them to serve God and God’s people. They’re open to being shown what it looks like to lead in their community and in your congregation. 3. Small groups are a great crucible for identity transformation. Re- search shows that identity transformation is at the very heart of desis- tance from crime. The topics covered in a robust life-application small group Bible study can constitute the curriculum for identity change—for both returning citizens and your existing congregation members alike. 4. Small groups can provide a great place to belong. Unlike large-group
[ 39 ]
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software