Small Care Groups
Small care groups are a means to rediscover, or preserve, this treasure of sharing and faith. All over the world, thousands of people choose to take part in weekly gatherings of small groups of different types. Besides the positive impact they have in their community, small groups enable members to learn knowing God more intimately and to build new friendships which become invaluable means of support in times of difficulty.
God First
The idea of forming a small group is not a new concept in and of itself because there are already many different types of support groups that exist in our communities.
What is particular to this small care group concept is the introduction of the spiritual dimension. It is the desire to combine faith and action. We must invite and welcome Jesus Christ and give him first place; that is to say, to give him the opportunity to lead and guide us by his Spirit. That will make all the difference!
According to Jesus, all the commandments can be resumed into one: "Love God and love your neighbour. So we need first to know God and learn how to receive his love. Then we can pour out his love into the life of others.
Starting a Small Group
It is easy to start a small care group. Here are some suggestions.
1- Firstly, get together some friends, neighbours, fellow workers or some members of your family who wants to love God and to love others. It is not necessary to be a great number.
2- Each participant must get a copy of the training manual “Small Groups” (available for free on this website).
3- Choose where your weekly meetings will take place. Your small group can meet in a public place, a home, a church, a work place, a school, or elsewhere. It is however necessary to choose a place which facilitate dialogue between the participants and quietness for prayer.
Simple and Flexible
Small care groups can or cannot be affiliated with one particular Church. They can be useful to regular churchgoers as to those who do not attend church. What's more, their flexible structure makes them easily accessible to all age groups and can be quickly adapted to meet different needs. Their ultimate goal is to enable you to discover the benefits of an authentic faith which is shown through concrete action.
Is it really essential to have a leader for each small group? Not necessarily! The model Jesus taught us was more centered on the dynamic of interpersonal relationships, where each person must consider the interests of the other as much as his own. In this way, the gifts God has given to each person come out naturally. Those who have ability to lead and organize will humbly use their gift to serve others, while ensuring that no one feels left out, or be placed on a pedestal.
Once a Week
Creating a small support group requires some determination and stick-to-itiveness to fit these weekly meetings into a busy schedule, but it is well worth the effort. The place or style of meeting may vary. Some people have chosen to combine purpose with pleasure by sharing a meal together, which facilitates conversation and interaction.
The Book: Small Groups, a Help Guide
This book is written for those who wish to know God better and learn to apply these principles to their everyday lives. The book can be used for your own spiritual growth or to help a friend along his or her spiritual journey. It is designed to facilitate interaction in small group meetings, and to prompt enthusiasm for generosity.
This book is also an excellent tool for those who may like to form a small care group.
Each chapter is designed to motivate discussion on the essentials of Christianity and to activate your faith as a group.
Most importantly, this book will help you to learn hearing the voice of God. You will learn how to trust God and see how he can meet your needs. Finally, you will see your talents develop and blossom as you use them to serve others.
