There is no video with this lesson – just some great tips for leading your group well.
Your group provides opportunities for discussion, great questions and transparent moments around the table. Having a safe space to think, talk and ask questions – along with a friend who brings perspective and hope – is valuable and hard to find.
Great things can happen around our table when we are willing to share our stories. As the leader of a small group, you allow each woman to focus on learning more about herself, other people and Jesus.
Here are five things that will help you confidently lead your group.
# 1: Create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Wherever you meet, encourage women to get comfy.
Practical tip: Greet woman as they arrive and respect other’s schedule by beginning and ending on time.
#2: Encourage a safe atmosphere. Women are more willing to talk about what’s on their mind if they feel safe and accepted.
Practical tip: Set a few ground rules by encouraging members to commit to an atmosphere where everyone gets a chance to share. Commit to keeping conversations that happen around your table confidential and judgement-free.
#3: Have a simple plan. Our MOPS curriculum provides a story and some questions for your group. These aren’t questions that have a right or wrong answer, they are questions that encourage conversation.
Practical tip: Use the questions in our Meeting Ideas to start and guide the conversation. They’ll help keep you focused on the main topic of the day, but don’t feel pressured to discuss every question.
#4: Connect with others. If you invest in the lives of your members and invite them to invest in you, you’ll impact people in ways they will never forget.
Practical tip: Check in on members of the group between meetings. Our Meeting Ideas will give you some suggestions. A text, email or phone call can make a big difference in someone’s day.
#5: Don’t do it all alone. Find a support person and then encourage others in your group to help with the details, lead the conversation and connect with each other.
Practical tip: You may be leading the group, but you need the support of others, too. Find someone outside the group that can be your mentor or prayer partner.