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Small Group Fun
Injecting creativity and fun can energize small groups and help members make stronger faith friendships. (Shutterstock Photo)
Special to United Methodist Insight
Small Group ministry has been the lifeblood of countless churches, from small rural churches to enormous megachurches. Small groups connect individuals, create community, and support deep growth in discipleship. In a time of increased feelings of isolation, distance from the world, and a shrinking church, a need is forming to revitalize small group spaces to be even more impactful. In a landscape of online church services, flashy and creative worship is plentiful; the future of the church is going to be leveraging community connection and relationships, and that’s what small group ministry is all about! Keeping the groups fresh and effective through creativity and innovation will be a helpful part of remaining an engaging part of individuals' lives. Here are just a few examples of innovative small groups to get your creative juices flowing! Each example comes from a small group that is working to keep things fun, fresh, and new.
Digital Discourse
In an era of interconnectedness, small groups can amplify their reach by embracing the digital realm. Coming through the time of Covid-19 lockdowns, many people learned through church and work how to be virtually connected through Zoom, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, and Skype. A small group is a great place to utilize these newfound skills. From virtual meet-ups for geographically dispersed members to online discussion forums that keep the conversation alive throughout the week, the digital landscape offers a vast canvas for small group innovation. In a practical space, using technology to meet when the weather is inclement can help keep the group connection strong. Embrace the Zoom-age of fellowship with open hearts and open screens.
Themed Gatherings
Who says small group meetings must follow the same old routine? Inject a splash of creativity by introducing themed gatherings. From "Bible Study in Pajamas" to "Potluck with a Proverb," let your small groups embark on adventures in themed merriment. After all, who can resist the allure of discussing the Epistles while dressed in their comfiest sleepwear or partaking in a feast of biblical proportions? Even if you aren’t a biblical scholar, themes are an easy way to engage individuals in the content in a fun and casual way.
Interactive Prayer Stations
Forget about the static circle of folding chairs – it's time to bring a touch of interactive spirituality into the mix. Set up prayer stations around the meeting space, each designed to engage the senses and stir the soul. From tactile prayer objects to visual meditation prompts, these stations can transform prayer time into a multisensory pilgrimage of divine connection. By engaging the different senses, you are approaching prayer in a way that shifts how prayer is considered. Fresh experiences around prayer can deepen the experience of connection with the Divine!
Twisted Service Projects
Small groups have a knack for making a big impact, especially when service projects take on a creative twist. How about organizing a "Random Acts of Kindness" week, where small groups spread joy and generosity throughout the community – from surprise flower deliveries to spontaneous sidewalk chalk art with uplifting messages? The possibilities are as boundless as the grace that inspires them. Hand deliver coffee to the tattoo artists in town. Set up shop in a local bar and make sandwiches and bag lunches for the homeless. Find ways to provide love and support for people in unlikely spaces.
Try Something Light
Let's face it – sometimes diving deep into the Scriptures can be a serious undertaking. But who's to say we can't infuse a bit of lightheartedness into our biblical explorations? Turn your small group sessions into a blend of reflection and hilarity with a round of "Reenact That Parable" or a game of "Scripture Charades." After all, what's the harm in a little laughter alongside profound spiritual revelations? Creating fun memories around Bible stories is a helpful way to deepen a connection with the text and will actually help many group members remember it better. And, like many of the innovative ideas listed here, they are engaging to group members who might not be as focused on bible study and are instead looking for social connection and a place to have fun.
Innovation is a keystone to modern ministry, so looking to our small groups as opportunities to innovate is healthy. Take time to look for new ways to engage and connect. Doing life together in this new world will inevitably need to adapt and grow to remain fruitful. New methods and new experiences engage different people in different ways and will deepen the group's connection. Let the spirit of creativity and innovation lead you and your small group ministry to a place of deeper learning, greater enjoyment, and a more profound appreciation for the love of Jesus through community.
Kellen Roggenbuck
The Rev. Kellen Roggenbuck serves Stoughton UMC in Stoughton, Wisconsin, and teaches Evangelism and Discipleship at the Iowa Conference Licensing School.