Welcome to the third edition of Called to Lead — we're glad you're back!
Today, we're diving deeper into small groups and their integral role in discipleship. Specifically, let's discuss how to leverage small groups to help build trust.
Here's another story.
Jason, a ministry leader, was struggling to build community in his campus ministry. He noticed that while students would attend large events, they didn’t seem to connect on a deeper level. That all changed when he introduced small groups.
At first, the groups were slow to take off, but once trust began to form within each group, something beautiful happened—members started opening up, sharing their struggles, and leaning on each other for support. Jason realized that small groups weren’t just another ministry tool—they were the foundation of building authentic community. Each member felt needed and known, and as a result, they were more likely to share and more likely to get involved on a deeper level. This is exactly what Jason desired.
Takeaways for Ministry Leaders:
Small Groups Foster Deeper Connections: Large gatherings may spark interest, but small groups are where trust and deeper relationships are formed.
Trust Takes Time: Be patient with your small groups. Trust and vulnerability are built over time as members begin to feel needed and known.
Personal Growth Through Group Support: When members feel needed and known in their small groups, they experience personal growth and are more likely to engage in community life.
Guide for Ministry Leaders: How to Build Trust in Small Groups
Step 1:Create Safe Spaces Make sure your small groups are environments where members feel safe to share. Begin with icebreakers and low-pressure conversations to build comfort and openness.
Step 2: Encourage Vulnerability Share personal stories and struggles as a leader to encourage vulnerability. When leaders model openness, it creates a culture where others feel safe to do the same.
Step 3: Stay Consistent Trust is built over time, so ensure small groups meet regularly and consistently. A predictable schedule helps members feel secure in their commitment to the group.
Exercise for Ministry Leaders: Evaluate Your Small Groups
Reflect on your current small groups. Do they provide a space for authentic connection? Are members opening up and trusting each other? If not, brainstorm ways to create safer, more vulnerable environments.
Upcoming Webinar: Small Groups Are Your Superpower with Everett Fritz, CEO at Andrew Ministries
If you haven't signed up yet, there is still time! Join us tomorrow, October 30, at 12:00 p.m. CST for a conversation with Everett Fritz, CEO and Founder of Andrew Ministries.
Everett is a leading expert in small group discipleship and an advocate for quality youth ministry. You'll gain valuable insight into effective small group organization and facilitation and practical tools for immediate implementation.
This newsletter is a collaborative effort between Called and Newman Connection—designed to empower ministry leaders with the tools for building authentic faith communities.
