THE LIFE-CHANGING SMALL GROUP MODEL
“God’s already been at work in your life. Come and keep growing spiritually and as a leader in a welcoming and supportive group setting.”
The Good News
What In Involves
The Changes Required
This needs to be more than simply inviting returning citizens to your existing small groups. Creating a small group covenant and reframing group materials so that they’re sensitive to the needs and concerns of returning citizens is worth the investment.
The transformative magic is in the combination of content and process. When the content focuses on key aspects of identity transformation and the group process encourages life application and allows for real belonging, this can be a ministry that serves everyone involved.
Your most powerful reentry ministry might be sitting in plain sight. Small groups are a great crucible for identity transformation. 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.
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.
[ 45 ]
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software