The Small Group Institute offers an opportunity for laity and clergy to learn more about the history of small groups, the theology and the important role of a small group leader as groups are formed and developed. This year’s Institute will help people interested in working with small groups understand their spiritual gifts, how to be a leader, the dynamics of a small group, the design of a small group, how to choose curriculum, as well as how to go beyond the church walls and reach out to others.

The Institute will encourage, engage and empower those attending so they offer small group ministry in their local churches.

The Small Group Ministry Institute will begin in the fall of 2008 and conclude in the fall of 2009. Those who attend all six training sessions will be certified as Small Group Ministry Leaders.

Cost: $10 per session or $50 if registering for all six sessions. All sessions will be offered at two different sites, Elgin First UMC and Sycamore UMC. Sessions will be held from 9 AM – 3 PM.

Elgin First UMC: 216 East highland Avenue, Elgin, IL, 60120 - map
Sycamore UMC: 160 Johnson Avenue, Sycamore, IL, 60178 - map

For more information contact: Jean Bush at jbush@umcnic.org, 847-931-0710, and ext-14.

Session #1

The Theology of Class Meetings:
Our United Methodist Heritage of Small Groups in the Mode of John Wesley

Saturday, September 6, 2008 @ Elgin First UMC
Saturday, October 11, 2008 @ Sycamore UMC

Session #2

Building our Spiritual Gifts:
Building a Gifts Based Church Through Small Group Ministries

Saturday, November 8, 2008 @ Elgin First UMC
Saturday, December 13, 2008 @ Sycamore UMC

Session #3

The Christian As Small Group Leader:
Practical Help to Carry Out the Ministry of Leadership

Saturday, January 17, 2009 @ Elgin First UMC
Saturday, February 21, 2009 @ Sycamore UMC

Session #4

Group Dynamics for Small Groups:
Ways to Work Together in Small Groups

Saturday, March 7, 2009 @ Elgin First UMC
Saturday, April 18, 2009 @ Sycamore UMC

Session #5

How to Develop and Do Small Groups:
Nuts and Bolts of Small Group Ministry

Saturday, May 2, 2009 @ Elgin First UMC
Saturday, May 16, 2009 @ Sycamore UMC

Session #6

The Spirit of Small Groups – Outreach Ministry:
Going Beyond Our Small Group to the Community and the World

Saturday, September 12, 2009 @ Elgin First UMC
Saturday, October 10, 2009 @ Sycamore UMC

Celebration

Small Group Institute Celebration and Graduation

Saturday, October 3, 2009, 3:30 pm @ Elgin First UMC