After reading this post from our Executive Pastor, Tim Stevens, I have looked for the post where I addressed this issue. I can't find it, which is crazy! It's the foundational stuff that I address in the Getting a Grip on Groups workshop. (Next one is November 16.)
When developing a groups ministry, ask this question: Are we a church with small groups or of small groups? We decided some years ago that we are a church with small groups. We believe small groups are a great pathway for spiritual growth, but they are not the only pathway.
Before small groups, the pathway churches used was Sunday School. Now, it's small groups. With millions now connecting with one another through Facebook and blogs, there is sure to be another vehicle in the future beyond small groups. Our structure allows us to offer opportunities in small group relationships but not be locked into small groups as the only pathway for people to connect with one another.
After determining that we're a church with small groups, we asked this question: Are we a church with relationships or of relationships? We are a church of relationships. All of our venues include a relational component.
Whether it's a volunteer team serving those inside our church or outside our church in missions, whether it's a group meeting to get to know one another or for a specific purpose, or whether it's meeting a friend to sit together at services or to listen over a cup of coffee, relationships matter.
We're a church with small groups. We're a church of relationships.
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