Posts by Mark Howell
Checklist: Prep to Hold the Largest Small Group Connection
There are certain critical things that must be done if you want to maximize your small group connection. There is also a sequence in which these critical things must be accomplished. Here is what must be done and the sequence in which they must happen. Meet with senior pastor to get commitment for multi-week promotion.…
Read MoreNew from Rick Warren and Saddleback: 40 Days of Prayer
Finally got a look at 40 Days of Prayer, the newest church-wide campaign from Rick Warren and Saddleback Church. I’ve been really looking forward to this one and I should tell you, I got more excited and enthused about this campaign’s potential as I worked my way through the contents. Has there ever been a…
Read MoreWhat Does the Future of Small Group Ministry Look Like?
What Does the Future of Small Group Ministry Look Like? Yesterday I posted 3 Reasons Your Old School Small Group Model Is Failing and as I published it I felt a little pang of regret. Why? I think I realized that I was sharing bad news without pointing you to what I believe is the preferred future.…
Read More3 Reasons Your Old School Small Group Model Is Failing
Before we even get to the reasons your old school small group ministry model is failing, it makes sense for us to define success. And clearly my definition might not be yours, and that’s okay. As long as your small group ministry model is accomplishing your definition of success. For now, here’s my definition of…
Read MoreIf I Was Starting Today…Part 3
(This is part 3 of a 7 part series. You can read part 1 right here) I’ve been at this a while. Maybe you have too! All I know is, with over 25 years of small group ministry experience I’ve learned a thing or two. And guess what? If I knew way back then what…
Read MoreThe Essential Guide for Small Group Leaders Is a Must-Add Resource
Finally had an opportunity this week to spend some time with a new resource from Bill Search. The Essential Guide for Small Group Leaders is Bill’s first small group offering since Simple Small Groups was published in 2008. I loved his first book and was excited to dig into his new book. I was NOT disappointed. The…
Read MoreSkill Training: How to Add Meaningful Prayer Together to Your Group Meeting
Skill Training: How to Add Meaningful Prayer Together to Your Group Meeting Two things are true about many small groups (if not almost every group): When your group is brand new feeling comfortable praying together is very challenging. New members often don’t know each other and aren’t yet sure they can trust each other. Lots…
Read MoreIf I Was Starting Today…Part 2
(This is part 2 of a 7 part series. If you missed part 1, you can read it right here) If I knew then what I know now…I would have worked harder to be crystal clear on who my real customer was and designed my strategy to fit them. I realize that to some of…
Read MoreGroupLife Insider is launching today! Take Advantage of “Founder” Pricing
GroupLife Insider is launching today! Take Advantage of “Founder” Pricing Well…I’ve been preparing to launch a membership site for over a year…AND IT’S FINALLY HAPPENED! If you’re serious about building thriving small group ministries that connect people and make disciples in the 21st century, you’re going to want to give GroupLife Insider serious consideration. As much…
Read MoreOrganizational Culture: Must-Read and Listen Resources
Organizational Culture: Must-Read and Listen Resources You may consider the subject of organizational culture above your pay grade or a field of expertise that you don’t need or that has little to do with building a thriving small group ministry. If that’s you…I’m sorry, but I must beg you to reconsider. Instead, I believe it…
Read More