In every Christian denomination there is increasing interest in developing small groups within local Churches – some for the sharing and nurturing of faith, others for planning and decision-making. Widely recognised as contexts in which meaningful exchange can take place they, nevertheless, exhibit quite a wide variation in both purpose and intention. Though superficially similar, they are often underpinned by widely differing attitudes and concerns.
Small groups gathered for all kinds of religious purposes can be ‘life-giving’ but this is not always the case. Experience suggests that their value is highly dependent on how they are facilitated. If, as many commentators would claim, small groups are vital to the future of the Christian churches, it is essential that those charged with leading them be suitably trained.
In a variety of ecclesial settings we have been designing and delivering short bespoke training processes appropriate to the needs and aspirations of different groups. Many who are currently running house groups; RCIA groups; alpha courses and the like have benefited from our involvement.
Training in the facilitation of groups has been a signature activity of this consultancy – something which is being continued and developed through a recently formed partner organisation ‘Breathing Spaces’.