The holidays bring joy, warmth, and celebration—but they also bring disruption. Between travel schedules, family gatherings, and Christmas programs, many churches see their small groups slow down or even pause entirely. When this happens, leaders often feel discouraged, wondering how to sustain small group ministry during the holidays. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a bit of creativity and care, you can help your group stay spiritually engaged and relationally strong through one of the busiest seasons of the year.
Healthy small group ministry during the holidays doesn’t mean overloading people—it means giving them opportunities to experience community and faith in ways that fit the rhythm of the season. By shifting expectations and focusing on connection rather than completion, your small group can emerge from the holidays more united than ever.
Why Small Groups Struggle During the Holidays
Even the most committed group members face challenges this time of year. Travel plans interrupt the normal schedule, seasonal stress consumes attention, and many simply need rest. Leaders often feel pressure to “push through” with the same format, but that can backfire. Instead, recognize the realities of the season and work with them, not against them.
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The key is flexibility. If your group normally meets weekly, try biweekly for December. If you usually meet in homes, gather at a local café or restaurant. Adjusting your rhythm communicates care, not compromise. When you give people permission to breathe, they’re more likely to stay engaged.
How to Sustain Small Group Ministry During the Holidays
Here are several practical ways to keep your small group connected and thriving while everyone’s schedule shifts.
1. Shorten and Simplify Meetings
Instead of a 90-minute discussion, plan a 45-minute gathering focused on prayer, encouragement, and a short devotional. Use an Advent theme or reflect on one of the names of Jesus in Isaiah 9:6. A shorter meeting feels achievable for busy members and keeps spiritual momentum alive.
2. Host a Christmas Fellowship Night
Sometimes the best discipleship happens around a dinner table. Replace one discussion night with a simple Christmas meal or game night. Encourage everyone to share one thing God has taught them this year. The laughter and stories will deepen relationships in ways that last beyond the holidays.
3. Incorporate Service Together
Use the season to serve others as a group—deliver meals to seniors, volunteer at a toy drive, or write Christmas cards to missionaries. Service not only keeps people connected but also reminds the group of its purpose. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
4. Stay Connected Digitally
Even when you can’t meet in person, connection doesn’t have to stop. Send short weekly devotionals through text or email, create a group chat for prayer requests, or hold a 20-minute Zoom check-in. A brief video call can help your group feel together even when miles apart.
5. Use Advent to Refocus Hearts
Many believers struggle to keep Christ at the center of Christmas. Use your small group as a spiritual anchor. Share a short Advent reading or devotional series. Encourage members to post reflections or photos that capture moments of gratitude, peace, or joy.
