• You might want to think through both a “returning citizen sensitive ” and a “returning citizen specific ” approach. A “sensitive” approach might mean taking one of your existing small groups (like a men’s Bible study) and adapting the questions so that male returning citizens feel like it’s for them as well as the other men. A “specific” approach would be to develop a small group comprised mostly of those in reentry, where their questions and concerns would be front and center. Advantages to the Life-Changing Small Group model It builds on a core strength of many congregations. This isn’t rocket science and it isn’t expensive. It builds mutuality. Returning citizens are simply full participants in the group, not clients and not someone’s project. It builds understanding. With open conversations and personal life applica- tion, these groups can help forge a fusing of horizons. That is, congregation- al members can integrate returning citizens’ perspectives into their own and vice-versa. Challenges to the Life-Changing Small Group model It’s not rocket science, but that doesn’t make it easy. You’ll face the same perennial challenges that all small group ministries face—identifying and developing leaders, attendance attrition, stylistic differences, commitment, accountability, etc. The leadership development process is often lacking. Let’s be honest: a lot of ordinary congregations don’t do much intentional leadership development of any kind. It could be a stretch to get this going. Finding usable life-application Bible study material that’s returning-citi- zen focused is harder than you might think. You may need to do some of the work of adapting materials yourself as you proceed. Returning citizens’ lives can often be chaotic, especially in the early post-release days. This affects their ability to come regularly and can present logistical challenges to your small group dynamics.
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