Lessons Learned Leading an Online Small Groups

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When I was asked to lead an online women’s small group my first thought was I am 70 years old and not very computer literate. How is this even possible and then I remembered my life verse Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths. So I said okay a little
over two years ago and the journey with my group and the Lord has been both exciting and rewarding beyond my expectations.

Lesson #1: I needed to have a genuine love for people, believe and trust God to help me to teach, disciple and mentor those that join my group.

Lesson #2: I had to be willing to tackle the Online Platform that was given to host the online group. That meant asking many, many questions and a lot of practice. Oh, do not let me for get a lot of prayer.

Lesson # 3: I put a lot of time and research into choosing the right type and and even the size of the study to go with. Then completing the study before you begin the study online with your group. Be prepared! Where to get a study will have to be for another time. Literally 100’s of choices. I will add keeping each study to 8 to 10 weeks works really well and sending a group email every week on the day before we meet with a short outline for the meeting is a great way to send everyone a reminder of our meeting.

Lesson #4 is getting to really know those who join your group is paramount and at the same time lets them get to know you on a personal level. Having a personal phone call with each one as they join the group is the best way to accomplish this. I have a little fact sheet form that I keep on each one. It includes name, address, phone number, email, a little family history, church/faith background, pets, hobbies and anything else that comes up. This information has become very valuable to me as time passes and the group matures it helps me to connect with them on a personal level.

Lesson #5 is the structure of your online time. Keep the time to no more than 75 minutes. The optimal number in the group is anywhere from 1-7. Any larger than 7 the time allotted will become unmanageable. Dedicate the first 15 minutes to fellowship allowing everyone to share something in their life during the past week. Then begin the study with prayer and spend the next 45 minutes in study. The last 15 minutes is everyone sharing a prayer request and then ending in prayer.

In closing I would like to share that in leading my online small group God has shown me that I am here “for such a time as this”.

Linda

Palmetto Bay, Florida

Testimonies from my Online Small Group:
To me, small group means community. I gain so much from the wisdom of the other ladies in the group, and even more so, comfort, knowing that no matter what I may face, they will walk through it with me and guide me.
Melissa
Washington, D.C.

“I love the warmth, connection and friendship of these women. We learn about the Lord, support and enjoy fellowship. So rewarding, while having a ton of heartfelt fun!"
Brenda
Ontario, Canada

“I have found that being in Linda's small group has increased my spiritual power, encouragement, wisdom, and it is helping equip me to continue the work God wants me to carry out! I have a strong love for each and every lady in our group! Each one helps multiply my insight and learning. It is also a time of laughter, new friendships, sometimes tears, but always encouragement and prayer. I marvel at how we can connect from so far away.  They all bring a smile to my face at the end of my Sunday.”
Debbie
Palmetto Bay, Florida

“Online Small group has been a great BLESSING in my life as a mom and wife. It’s flexible with my schedule. I love having friends from all walks of life.”
Mary
Doral, Florida

“I have to say that this bible study time means so much to me because often time I feel so alone in the physical realm. Through bible study not only do we fellowship with others just like Christ said he wanted us to do but we also get to walk this walk with other fellow Christians. We get to lift each other up when the chips are down. Thank you for your leadership. For someone like me who grew up without a mother.. your spirit is exactly what I need in my life.”
Agatha
Bronx, New York