Leading Next-Gen Small Groups

In episode 36, Pastor Trent and Pastor Greg, discuss leading student and kids small groups, joined by our former Next Generation Pastor and current Experience Pastor, Landon Reynolds.

Show Notes

What is the difference between leading a student ministry small group and an adult one?

The goal is that you are looking for spiritual growth and discipleship.
So much of what you do is relational/foundational work.
Building relationship leads to more meaningful conversations.
The tone of the group is different.
80% of what you are doing in small group time isn’t even about the discussion, it’s about what happens outside the small group.

What are you looking for in small group leaders?

Key characteristics: Healthy, growing, and relatable.

Healthy: is your family healthy and are you healthy spiritually. Are students going to see that you have healthy relationships in your life?
Growing: are you growing and taking the steps to grow spiritually.
Relatable: being relatable is relating to them on their level.

Being relatable is not an age thing, every kid is different and every need is different.

When do student small groups happen?

We have two worship experiences on Wednesday nights: high school and middle school.
While one is in worship, the other is in small groups.
We try to encourage relational events outside of service every two months.
Every small group leader has a small group leader coach.
High school small groups are there to set up the message.
Middle school small groups are there to engage in discussion after hearing the message.

This is where we talk specifics on the topics.

This models the same design that adult small groups go through and that consistency is good for the church.

What do kids’ small groups look like?

K-2nd has its own curriculum
3rd-5th is more geared towards preteens.
Elementary is a more story-driven curriculum.

Lead small

Lead small

Be present
Create a safe place
Partner with parents
Make it personal
Move them out

There is alignment from birth through adults when it comes to our philosophy.
Whether you are a leader for the baby’s environment or 12th-grade environment you have the same principles guiding the way you operate.
Parenting ministry is relational discipleship.

QUOTES

There is alignment from birth through adults when it comes to our philosophy.
Whether you are a leader for the baby’s environment or 12th-grade environment you have the same principles guiding the way you operate.
Being relatable is not an age thing, every kid is different and every need is different.
80% of what you are doing in small group time isn’t even about the discussion, it’s about what happens outside the small group.