Words Of Wisdom

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In the fall of 2019, the Christian Formation Commission began the task of evaluating Small Group Ministry on the parish level. Recognizing that the most reliable way to have a personal encounter with Jesus is in a small-group setting, our desire was to create a resource that would help parishes create a vibrant small-group ministry in their parish. Through careful research of what small-group ministry looks like in our Diocese, and prayerful dissemination of this research, we were able to create a resource that can be used by parishes just starting to develop small-group ministry and for those who have small-group ministry as a part of their parish life. For those parishes with established small-group ministries, our hope is that you will be inspired by these resources and use them to enhance your ministry.

As the Commission worked to finalize this project in the spring of 2020, we could never have imagined how different our world would be from when we started. Everything about how we minister to the people of God has changed. In some ways, it makes these resources more important, as we have lost in a very real way, our sense of community. Now more than ever, the role of small-group ministry as an evangelization tool is critical. We have included resources to help navigate our ministry within a virtual world, to help us stay connected is this time of isolation and social-distancing.

The parishes we interviewed related several key elements that should be included in every parish’s small group ministry. We are calling them Words of Wisdom and we can all benefit from the advice of experienced leaders.

Hospitality
Hospitality is the number one rule of Evangelization.

It is essential to offer refreshments at any small group gathering. This can either be provided by the hosting parish or by the participants.
Provide childcare so that all parishioners can attend
Provide a comfortable meeting space (not too small or not too big) and that you can adjust the temperature as needed. Comfortable chairs arranged in a circle will help encourage conversation.
Provide a safe environment. The meeting space should be accessed easily without obstructions and also allow for confidential conversations that won’t be overheard by others outside your group.
Establish the expectations of how the group will function at your first meeting.

Group Leadership and Facilitation

Provide training for facilitators so that they have an understanding how adults learn.
Provide quality resources that meet the needs of the parish and the small group

Consistency

It is important to establish a regular schedule before the group starts meeting (the same day and time each week/month). Cancelling meetings will result in frustration and poor attendance.
Always begin and end your small group meetings with prayer, thoughtfully prepared. We have included some Prayer Resources to help you with this.

Make it a Priority

Include your Pastor in the planning process and invite his support of your ministry
Include Small Group Ministry in your budget so that you will have the resources you need for an effective ministry.

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations.” (Matt 28:19)

Created by the Diocesan Christian Formation Commission
2019-2020
Supported by the Office of Christian Formation