It Could Happen To You

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Small group success isn't just for mega churches. I can remember it like it was yesterday. I had only been on staff at Saddleback Church for a few weeks when I learned that over 800 men from our congregation were planning to attend the Promise Keepers rally in Washington, DC. I suggested we try to launch some new small groups among the …
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Seven Ways to Nurture Your Small Group Leaders

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Sally had been leading a small group for a few months when Jane, her small group coach, called her. Sally thought, that’s her job to call me; she really doesn’t care, and consequently, didn’t connect with her. A week later, Jane called again. This time Sally thought she was really nice but still was just doing her job. Jane had …
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Six Steps to Help Your Leaders Grow Spiritually

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When my daughter, Michelle, was diagnosed with a form of cerebral palsy, we thought she’d never walk. But one day she started getting up on her haunches and crawling. The next minute, she started climbing up the edge of things and trying to walk, but she didn’t look like she would ever get her legs underneath her. So we got a little …
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What is Group Talk? – 4 Conference Calls from the Small Group Network

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Steve Gladen and Brett Eastman talk about Group Talk - A great resource for you and your small group ministry. Learn great ideas that are out there around the world. Every month has a new topic to take your ministry to a new level. Watch Video   May Group Talks 5/10 – Steve Gladen on “The Power of Alignment” 5/17 – …
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The Best Ways to Sustain Your New Small Groups

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By Brett Eastman Your church has been on a spiritual roll with the 40 Days of Purpose campaign. Everyone’s excited, but you’re actually worried: What will happen to these wonderful small groups once 40 Days is over? No need to fret. Whether you just finished the 40 Days of Purpose or another fall campaign in which you launched …
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10 Ways to Build Momentum with Your Groups

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10 Ways to Build Momentum with Your Groups Steve Gladen and Brett Eastman talk about Summer and how to make Summer Time a little more dynamic in your groups. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Acts 2:41-43 1. Stay consistent: continue to meet when you …
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Review: New Edition of ‘Leading Life-Changing Small Groups’

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One of the books that shaped my understanding of small group ministry was "Leading Life-Changing Small Groups" by Bill Donahue. When it was originally published in the mid 90s, it quickly became the most important tool in my leader-training efforts. With the third edition (published in May 2012), it’s even better! One of the things …
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Small Group Leadership 101

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Brett Eastman interviews Caleb Anderson on Small Group Leadership 101. 10 Simple steps that will make a difference for you and your group. 1. You are not alone. 2. Don't try to do it alone 3. Just Be You 4. Prepare Ahead of Time 5. Pray for Your Group Members 6. Be Patient when Asking Questions 7. Always Read the Transitions and …
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WYD Open – Interview with Matt Hamilton

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WYDopen is dedicated to helping people apply their talents & gifts to serve others. WYDopen captures volunteer information and information from organizations that are looking for volunteers. Organizations can embed opportunities on their website as well as recruit volunteers from the WYDopen site. WYDopen uses social networking …
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The Saddleback Small Group Story

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An Interview with Brett Eastman, Former Small Group Champion Saddleback Church So Brett you landed at Saddleback Church after serving as the small group champion at Willow Creek for 5 years, how did it all begin? I can remember it like it was yesterday.  I was only on staff at Saddleback Church for a few weeks and Rick told me …
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