I thought you should know – Aug 31, 2025

Last week I talked about the situation and background for my assessment that our parish needs small groups to grow. Here’s the benefits I expect to see from small groups, or why investing in small groups by hiring a small group director is worth it. Small groups:

– let people experience Christian community, knowing others and being known,

– share stories of what the Risen Lord does in lives like ours,

– allow for spiritual multiplication, so disciples become disciple-makers,

– teach the faith more than we can give in a homily or talk,

– improve our care for parishioners, so we notice and support people in need, and,

– support people in growing as disciples. 

Spiritual directors, coaches, and personal trainers increase the growth of those they accompany. I think we can’t give the majority of our congregation a spiritual director. I think we can become a community where most people are in a small group. I’m looking forward to joining one.