Here are a few best practices successful groups have in common.
Successful Groups...
Foster Authenticity: The atmosphere should encourage openness and transparency among members. This is an environment where people should feel free to be themselves.
Provide Confidentiality: In order to build authenticity, members must be able to trust that issues discussed within the group will not be shared outside the group.
Demonstrate Respect: Group members never say anything that will embarrass their spouses or other members of the group.
Share Ownership: Group members agree to encourage one another to participate in broad ownership of the group.
Stay Connected: While prayer and discussion of the curriculum are key elements, the main emphasis of the group is on fostering relationships with one another and a relationship with Jesus.
Provide Care: Group members choose to be fully present and provide care and support for one another.
Maintain Privacy: No guests or new members are welcome to come to the group unless all members agree to welcome the guest or add members.
Strive for Consistency: Group members attend and participate on a regular basis.
End Well: Group members recognize that groups have a life cycle. They know that it will take intentionality for a group to end well and to help one another take next steps to foster continuous spiritual growth.