When setting out to lead others, it’s important to invest time in taking what you’re thinking about and putting it on paper (Habakkuk 2:2–3). If you don’t know where you’re going, it will be difficult for others to follow you.
This section will help you move your thoughts into a well-thought-out vision. Your clarity will be the catalyst for your group’s future success.
AFTER YOU COMPLETE THIS SURVEY
Set up a time to meet with your pastor or discipleship leader. They can help you:
- Walk through your results
- Align your vision with your church’s mission and core values
- Find helpful resources
- Connect with others who can support you
BRAINSTORMING: MY THOUGHTS FOR THE GROUP
The Type of People I See in the Group (check all that apply):
- □ Men
- □ Women
- □ Mixed group
- □ Seniors
- □ Young adults
- □ Youth
- □ Kids
- □ Singles
- □ Engaged couples
- □ Just married
- □ Married for a while
- □ Empty nesters
- □ Divorced
- □ Blended families
- □ Special needs
- □ New believers
- □ Established believers
- □ ______________
- □ ______________
- □ ______________
The Setting for My Group Will Be:
- □ In a home
- □ At a café
- □ At the church
- □ Online
- □ In the morning
- □ In the afternoon
- □ In the evening
- □ On weekends
- □ ______________
- □ ______________
Activities in the Group (check all that apply):
- □ Bible study
- □ Prayer
- □ Helping each other
- □ Serving together
- □ Coffee/snacks
- □ Potlucks
- □ Evangelism
- □ Social activities
- □ Sports
- □ Arts and crafts
- □ Mentoring
- □ ______________
Challenges My Potential Group Members Might Face:
- □ Friendships
- □ Marriage
- □ A life stage
- □ Parenting
- □ Finances
- □ Addictions
- □ Time management
- □ Finding purpose
- □ Mental health
- □ Physical health
- □ ______________
- □ ______________
SHAPING THE PURPOSE
People will grow because we:
(write a few sentences)
This is how the community will look different because of my group:
(write a few sentences)
REFINING THE GROUP EXPERIENCE
When we meet, we will:
- □ Talk Together: Spend time catching up through casual conversation.
- □ Eat Together: Share coffee, snacks, or a light meal.
- □ Have Fun Together: Enjoy an activity like exercise, hobbies, or outings.
- □ Serve Together: Engage in service projects within the church or local community.
- □ Pray Together: Share needs and pray for one another.
- □ Study Together: Intentionally grow spiritually through discussion:
- □ Talk through each week’s sermon notes
- □ Use a book or video series
- □ Study a resource I have created
If there are kids, my group will:
(describe how you will accommodate them)
I WILL LEAD THIS TYPE OF GROUP:
- □ Mini-group: A few people for a specific reason, for a specific time.
- □ Large group: Open to new participants at any time; meets in a neutral setting for a set period.
- □ Small group: Targeted to a specific demographic; meets each semester in a home or personal setting.
- □ Support group: Focused on healing and growth around a specific challenge.
- □ Interest group: Meets casually around a common interest to build relationships that lead to spiritual growth.
SUMMARIZE YOUR PLAN
I will lead this type of group:
(choose from above)
These kinds of people will join this group:
(based on your earlier brainstorming)
We will meet:
- Location:
- Day/Time:
- Frequency:
We will do these activities together:
(talk, pray, eat, study, serve, etc.)
We will use these materials:
(list any books, videos, studies)
We will serve our community/church by:
(describe service opportunities)
WRITE YOUR GROUP INVITATION
In 100 words, describe your group to potential members:
(Example: “Our group is for young adults seeking friendship, purpose, and deeper faith. We’ll meet every Wednesday evening at Hart Soul Café for honest conversation, prayer, and fun activities. Whether you’re a new believer or looking to reconnect with Jesus, you’re welcome here.”)
NEXT STEP: MEET WITH YOUR LEADER
Take your finalized plan and meet with your pastor or discipleship leader.
They will help you:
- Confirm the vision
- Adjust where needed
- Plan your next steps
Remember:
The clearer your vision, the easier it will be to communicate your group to others and draw in the right people.
The start date for your group will vary depending on:
- Any classes or training you might need
- Your church’s group launch rhythms (some start throughout the year, others on a semester basis)
Leading a group is a marathon, not a sprint.
Take time to lay a strong foundation now for a fruitful future.