How to Build a Small Group Ministry in a Sunday School Culture, Part 1

In this five part series I take a look at one of my most frequently asked questions.  There’s a chance it’s the question that keeps you up at night.  There’s an even better chance you know someone struggling with this question right now.  Here’s the question:

Q: Is it possible to build a small group ministry in a church with a Sunday School culture? We have an active and fairly effective adult Sunday School program.  At the same time, we’re concerned that Sunday School doesn’t seem to work for everyone and we’d like to start a Small Group Ministry without destroying what we already have.  Is that even possible?

A: Yes…but there are some keys you will want to keep in mind as you move down this road.

This is a very common question.  It’s asked in a variety of ways, but it is one of the most frequently asked questions in conferences around the country.  You may have asked it yourself!  And you’ve probably heard a variety of answers.

My goal in this series of articles is to help you do what you need to do in a way that makes the biggest difference.  There are several steps in making that happen.

1. Understand and skillfully communicate the reasons for building a Small Group Ministry.
2. Develop your plan well in advance.
3. Think multiple steps, look beyond the first steps to the next and the next after that.
4. Execute your plan while staying alert to the feelings of people.

In part two I’ll provide some ideas to help you understand and begin to communicate your reasons for building a small group ministry.  You can read part two of my series right here.

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