Dealing with the aftermath of a broken relationship within a small group can be extremely tricky for a leader. It would be easy for group members to choose sides and splinter the group. But the way the leader responds will set the direction of health and reconciliation for the couple—and the group. When dealing with breakups and small groups, what is a leader to do?
Here are five things a leader should do when a breakup happens:
1) Do not take sides.Â
The leader’s and members’ roles are to love both people unconditionally. Taking sides will guarantee a split in the group.
2) Guide the couple toward professional counseling.
The leader or members should not take on the role of mediator between the couple. Talk to a pastor at the church about where to point the couple for biblical counseling.
3) Help them find new groups.Â
If it’s impossible for them to stay in the current group, work with the church leadership to find a group where they can begin to heal.
4) Be honest and open with the group.Â
Rumors and speculation will destroy the trust of the group. If there are members who are personally affected by the situation, meet with them individually outside of the normal group meeting time. It might be best to offer to meet with one of the church pastors at this point.
5) Allow God to strengthen relationships in the group.
Satan wants nothing more than to destroy marriages and relationships, and he will use this opportunity to plant seeds of distrust. Use this time to help couples in the group rededicate themselves to God and to each other. This is an ideal time to take the group through a good relationship study like this one.
This article originally appeared here.
