This August
a group gathered at our retreat centre in the Athabasca Woods for a four-day
introduction to small group ministry.This August
a group gathered at our retreat centre in the Athabasca Woods for a four-day
introduction to small group ministry.
It was a program we did in 1998 in Athabasca, and in 1999 at the Sorrento Centre, but hadn't presented for the last couple of years. Judging by the reaction to our article in the last newsletter on small group ministry, it seemed the time was right.
As always, we updated the information with current insights and added an opportunity to develop a plan. The result-participants went away with a draft of a plan for implementing a small group ministry in their congregation.
Everyone had a good time. We worked hard, but also had time for play and reflection. The foundation for the program was coming together in our own circle so everyone could live that experience.
The group
developed pictures to describe three aspects of small group ministry: filtering
dreams, celebrating beauty and maintaining connections.
Small groups are places where there is a sense of community and belonging-where we are supported. There is a growing sense in main-line denominations that small groups or circles are vital to a growing congregation.
Each day began and ended with a circle, an experience of a small group in action. There are four aspects that make a small group different from a casual gathering or committee meeting.
It is important to take time to truly discover where each person in the group is coming from. This is not a casual check-in, but time to share with people who care.
Personal growth means we come away from a small group circle as deeper, richer people.
Each
group has a task. For some groups the task is mutual support. For others a service,
for yet others sharing a common interest.
People today want to experience God, not just talk about God. That is why meaningful prayer is a component of each small group's life.
On the last day, the emphasis was providing time and encouragement so each participant could develop a plan for introducing a small group ministry in their congregation.
Our current plan is to offer our four day "Small Group Ministry" program again next August in Athabasca. If you are interested, talk to us about details.
Comments from this year's participants:
"The high point for me was the fellowship and getting together in a circle."
"You sifted through the resources and gave us approaches that fit with our ethos."
"You went with the flow and allowed for interruptions, discussion and stories."
"You provided a chance to create a plan on a computer."
"A great mix of practical and theoretical."
"The venue was fantastic."
Pictures
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Congregational Life Newsletter Vol. 9 No. 3 August 2003