Small group leaders come in all ages! If your heart is bent towards bringing women together, you can be a small-group leader.

If this is your first time leading, here are some pointers:

1. If this is your first time leading a group, ask another trusted woman to co-lead alongside you. You can each take turns leading the discussion, alternating weeks. Having a co-leader is especially helpful for larger groups in keeping discussions on topic.

2. Any size group could potentially use this study effectively; however, if you’re looking to build trusted relationships and provide a safe and inviting place for healing, keep the group to between five and twelve people. As group size increases, women will be less inclined to share personal details.

3. Find a private and welcoming space for your group to meet. I prefer rooms with sofas or comfortable chairs.

4. Respect the time participants have allocated for the study and begin and end on time. A minimum of 1.5 hours is needed for small groups. The larger the group, the more time you will need.

5. Before you begin your very first session, read through the Code of Conduct together and have all participants sign and return those sheets to you. Download Code of Conduct.

6. Lead by example – in sharing your story, being vulnerable and authentic, and in honoring others with active listening.

7. Open and close each session with prayer. This allows everyone to settle into the study time at the beginning and prepare hearts and minds for the next 90 minutes. Close the study as the Spirit leads. Depending on the group’s comfort level, you can ask participants to take turns leading the opening or closing prayer.

8. Each session, remind participants to turn off phone volume and put their phones away for the duration of your time together. Interruptions can be devastating for the person in the middle of sharing.

9. Continuing the conversation between sessions via text or email will help you stay connected and build relationships with each other.

10. Use this study as a time for your own deep reflection and challenge yourself to listen to what the Holy Spirit is speaking to you in this season. 

If you ever have a question, you can email me directly at leah@leahhoppes.com