Articles for Small Group Leaders

Pros & Cons: Should Your Small Group Meet Through the Holidays?

December is unlike any other month. Families travel. Schools close. Workloads spike. Church calendars fill with events. All of this impacts attendance and group energy.

3 Signs of a Transformed Life

When you meet the true God, your hate and your fear begin to evaporate. They may not disappear immediately, but the Spirit of Christ in your heart won’t rest until your spirit echoes his. Find out more about a transformed life.

How Small Groups Can Carry Advent Traditions

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.

Spiritual Maturity: 5 Signs You DON’T Have It

Telling people you’re mature is like telling people you’re wise…it’s kind of proof you’re not.

How to Recognize When You’re in a Small Group Rut

Sometimes a small group rut happens because conversations stay polite instead of personal. Growth happens in the soil of authenticity.

Christmas Fellowship Ideas for Your Small Group

What better time of year to engage your small group in meaningful—and fun—Christmas fellowship? You might even find that people who aren't normally involved in your church could be open to Christmas fellowship ideas and service opportunities through your small group.

How to Keep Small Groups Thriving Through the Holidays (Without Losing Momentum)

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.

12 Ideas for a Life-Changing Small Group Christmas

Start thinking and preparing for your small group Christmas now. For many of us, the holidays are the biz, biz, busiest time of the year.

21 Christmas Icebreaker Questions for Small Groups

As you gather your group this season, light the candles, pour the cocoa, and make room for joy and honesty around the table. Ask, listen, and let the stories flow.

Easy Small Group Food Ideas

My small group enjoys starting our time together in conversation while eating some snack foods. We rotate responsibility for bringing snacks to our gatherings.

How to Use Advent to Deepen Discipleship in Your Small Group

Because December can be hectic, keep your Advent gatherings simple and peaceful rather than adding pressure. A living room, a few candles, a quiet song, and prayerful conversation are enough.