There are probably many different roles played by the members of your faith community. Small groups can foster strong connections among congregants as they work toward mutual goals. There are several types of small groups that may form in your church, and each one brings its own unique benefits to the organization as a whole.

Task Groups

The first type of group that probably comes to mind is one that is created to accomplish a specific task. For example, if your church has an ongoing project with an annual event or two, it makes sense to have a team or committee to organize, advertise and report on its progress. A small group structure may be helpful in completing other tasks that are common to religious organizations:

• Finance and budget
• Building maintenance
• Communications
• Crisis planning
• Community outreach
• Education

A team that is already in place allows easy collaboration on any task that needs to be accomplished. Members can navigate their roles more smoothly if they have clear responsibilities.

Study Groups

Many people become disillusioned with the church because they feel like they don't get anything out of it. They want to delve more deeply into spiritual topics and get to know other members. A study group gives them a place to foster both social connection and a deeper understanding of their faith. Whether they are working through an organized study or meeting to discuss a book they read, a study group fulfills the needs that bring many people to church in the first place.

Accountability Groups

Another way to help members connect to one another is to encourage social groups where they can share their struggles. Accountability is not about control; the group is not there to judge or police each other's behavior. Instead, it's an opportunity to check in with each other and get the support they need to make healthy and helpful decisions. These groups can be particularly beneficial to those who are single or new to the area and thus may not have as many opportunities to find social support outside the church as others.

Support Groups

Closely related to accountability groups are support groups. These gatherings are often focused on a particular shared experience. For example, your church may host grief support groups for those who have lost a close loved one. Addiction recovery is also a common theme. People who deal with frequent racial, gender or sexuality discrimination often appreciate a safe space where they can gather with those with similar experiences to talk through ways to cope with the stress it causes. If you want your church to be a haven for people who are suffering, making space for support groups is a good way to communicate this intention.

Management Group

With all the leadership opportunities created by the establishment of various small groups, you need some type of governing body to oversee them all. This group may take the form of a church council or deacon committee. Regardless of what you name it, choose members who are familiar with the church and the way it functions. They should also be well-versed in helping people match their strengths to the different ways they can serve. 

Consider having members of this group nominated and chosen by the congregation. This is a more democratic approach than simply asking for volunteers or appointing leaders. After all, they are going to be the ones in charge of making important decisions that affect everyone, so it just makes good sense to start with a group the members respect and trust.

A faith community needs a structure that allows it to function well, especially if you have a lot of members. Small groups give people an opportunity to serve and participate in a variety of meaningful ways.