We believe that the Christian faith is not something you practice alone. We want all of our small groups to be intentionally designed – to not only give everyone a place to belong and be cared for, but also to be encouraged and strengthened in their journey with Jesus. For more information about what Engage Group options we currently have available, contact us at: msmith@trinitymullicahill.org
What Does an Engage Group Leader Do?
Engage Groups connect with one another, grow their faith, and serve others. Your ministry as an Engage group leader will help people develop spiritually, care for one another as they share their lives, and engage more fully in mission.
Being a grow group leader is much more about your heart than your ability. If you’re doing your best to love God and love your neighbor, you’ve already mastered most of it. That said, you’ll have a few basic responsibilities:
Provide an environment that supports spiritual growth, life sharing, and missional living. In short, you provide the space, and God does the work. To choose the location of your group, ask yourself: Where can people feel most comfortable to engage in spiritual formation? Where can people share life where it might not be distracting or too noisy? For many people, “at home” is the answer to these questions. However, some groups meet at church, in coffee shops, or in other locations. You’ll evaluate your options and determine what works best for your group.
Some groups will need child care to provide a conducive environment for sharing and learning. You may choose a babysitter you’re familiar with or reach out to the church office for candidates. Babysitting will be reimbursable. (This process will be covered more fully during our upcoming informational gathering.)Invite others to be in your group. You may have friends from church or your neighborhood you’re already thinking of inviting. Do it! We encourage bringing in people who don’t attend our church, and we also encourage you to invite your friends who worship with you on Sundays. Some groups will be same gender, and some won’t. If you have a preference, just talk it over with Pastor Michael.
If you’re newer or don’t know that many people, that’s okay. Encourage your friends to invite friends of their own. In addition, we’ll have information available late August and early September where people from Trinity can join your group.Facilitate the conversation. Don’t worry about curriculum—we’ll provide it. And although it may seem counterintuitive, no Bible expertise is needed to lead a group. Zero. You can be much more valuable to the group as a facilitator than as a teacher. Why? Your group will learn together as a community. They will derive value from hearing each other’s insights into Scripture, life experiences, and other important topics. As a facilitator, you will keep an eye on group dynamics to ensure they’re healthy. You’ll set expectations (such as confidentiality) that make people comfortable, get conversations going, and ensure that all group members have an opportunity to participate in the discussion. We’ll provide you with training and tips along the way.
Manage your group’s caring needs. Deep connections and caring are among the most beautiful benefits of engage group life. As a group leader, you’ll monitor your group’s life situations and needs. For instance, if a group member cannot attend due to a family emergency, you will want to call him or her and ask if the group can help. Of course, you won’t be on your own. Through your modeling, you will encourage and empower group members to care for one another. For group members with more serious issues, please contact Pastor Michael. Resources and care are available.