Disclosure: I received a book from Tyndale Bloggers. Post contains affiliate links; opinions shared are mine.

In the church, small group ministry can be a powerful way to build relationships.  If you’ve felt led (or you’ve been asked) to host a small group in your home, you might feel overwhelmed with the idea of the commitment.  We’ve hosted small groups  in various ways over the past 20 years, and it’s always been a wonderful experience.   Here are 4 things to consider when you’re hosting a small group.

1. Your house doesn’t have to be “perfect.”   Do a quick clean-up and set out some folding chairs if needed.  You can even meet outside on the patio if that’s easier for you.   The group is coming to visit with you, not inspect your home.   Our couches seat 6; our small group has 11 members.  We use our dining room chairs, barstools, and folding chairs to make it work. Fold-out TV trays make up for the lack of dining room space.
2. Set out some snacks.  Your group will likely help with the food plans, but have some finger food available for the first meeting if possible.  Go for something simple, such as pretzels and dip.  This need not be a full-on buffet spread.  If your group decides to have a meal together, as ours does, the other members should take turns providing food.
3. Consider the kids.  If your small group members have small children, you’ll want to have something in mind to occupy them.  In our group, the older kids entertain the little ones.  We set out crayons and coloring books, videos, and simple crafts.   I’ve been a part of small groups in which children didn’t come with the parents, and I was less likely to attend because of it.  Limiting child care could be a deal breaker for some young parents.
4. Who’s in the lead?  Hosting doesn’t necessarily mean leading the group.  Your group should decide who will facilitate the discussion, ask questions, and guide the group’s study.  Since you’re doing some prep work in hosting the gathering, you probably won’t be asked to lead as well.   Sometimes, small groups focus on a specific book or video series.

For example, The 9 Arts of Spiritual Conversation can be the basis of a 9-week study.  This particular book focuses on building relationships people who have different opinions than you.  It has a different theological view than I do, but provides solid principles about listening to a non-believer. This book uses some quirky terminology that would actually work well in a small group environment.  Each chapter ends with guiding questions that can be used in group discussion.  It also presents specific “practice” assignments to help the reader put the learning into action.

Hosting a small group in your home is a wonderful way to serve the Lord. Enjoy yourself, and your small group will, too!