The Advent season invites Christians to slow down, reflect, and prepare their hearts for the coming of Christ. Yet in our culture of busyness, even church members often rush through December without pausing to worship or wait.
That’s why small groups have a unique opportunity—to help carry the beauty and depth of Advent into people’s homes and hearts.
Through meaningful conversation, simple traditions, and shared prayer, small groups can make the waiting season a spiritual experience rather than a checklist of events.
When we gather with others to light candles, read Scripture, or pray for hope and peace, the story of Christ’s coming feels personal again. Instead of being spectators in a holiday rush, we become participants in God’s unfolding story of redemption.
Advent in Small Groups
Advent Belongs in Community
Advent, which means “coming,” focuses on two realities: Christ’s first coming in Bethlehem and His promised return in glory. These weeks call us to watch, wait, and hope—a rhythm that stands in sharp contrast to the hurried pace of December. And because small groups already function as spiritual families, they are the perfect place to keep that rhythm alive.
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When people gather weekly to reflect on themes like hope, peace, joy, and love, the season gains depth. Imagine a circle of friends lighting the Advent wreath together, reading Isaiah 9 or Luke 2, and sharing what “hope” means in their current circumstances.
That kind of moment anchors people to Christ amid the chaos. Dietrich Bonhoeffer once wrote, “The celebration of Advent is possible only to those who are troubled in soul, who know themselves to be poor and imperfect.” In small groups, people can bring that honesty before God and one another.
Bringing Advent in a Small Groups to Life
Carrying Advent traditions into small groups doesn’t require elaborate preparation. A few intentional practices can make a powerful difference. Here are some practical ideas:
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Light an Advent candle each week. If your group meets weekly, take a few minutes at the beginning to light the candles corresponding to each Advent theme. Allow someone different each week to lead a short reflection or prayer. You don’t need a formal wreath; even simple tea lights can symbolize the growing light of Christ as Christmas approaches.
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Read Scripture with expectation. Choose short passages from the Gospels and the prophets—such as Isaiah 11:1–10 or Luke 1:26–38—and read them aloud together. Invite group members to share what stands out to them. Reading these texts slowly and conversationally creates space for the Holy Spirit to speak through familiar words.
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Integrate worship and silence. Advent is a season of longing. Singing “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” or spending a few quiet minutes in silence before prayer can help members enter that longing together. Encourage everyone to reflect on where they feel the need for Emmanuel—“God with us”—in their personal lives.
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Serve others intentionally. Consider adopting a family in need or partnering with a local charity. Acts of generosity remind the group that Advent prepares us not just for celebration, but for participation in God’s mission. Jesus told His followers, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
