As a church or ministry leader, you know that small groups play a vital role. These micro-communities serve as a source of connection, growth, and support among members. The intimate gatherings help believers along their faith journey at a more granular level. They offer more opportunities to receive personal encouragement and develop meaningful relationships. However, none of this matters if you can’t get people to join. That’s why effective small group promotion is key. 

If you’re not promoting small groups properly, you’re doing your members a disservice. More than that, you’re risking your organization’s health and impact. But by taking steps to boost participation and engagement, you can turn things around. 

Why Small Group Promotion Is Important

According to a Lifeway Research study, small group participation has been on a steady decline, with only 44% of churchgoers being involved in a group in 2022. One possible explanation is that many churches and ministries fail to inform members about groups. When members aren’t aware of the availability and benefits of groups, they miss out—and so does the organization itself.

Here are some specific reasons why small group promotion is important:

Building Community

Small groups serve as the lifeblood of community within a church. They create safe spaces where members can foster connections and support one another in their respective faith journeys. By promoting small groups, you can encourage members to participate in regular gatherings, discussions, and shared activities. And that way, you can create an atmosphere of belonging and camaraderie that strengthens the entire church community. 

Encouraging Discipleship

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…”—Matthew 28:19

If you want to encourage discipleship, small group promotion is key. Small groups provide an environment that naturally encourages discipleship. They help nurture spiritual growth and personal development. Encouraging members to get involved can increase their knowledge of scripture and deepen their faith, making it easier for them to follow Jesus’ example in their daily lives.

Fostering Accountability

Promoting small groups is also necessary if you want to foster accountability among believers. Groups offer a supportive, encouraging environment for members. They hold each other accountable in their spiritual practices, prayer life, and service to others. As a result, members are more committed to…

• Attending services regularly

• Engaging with God daily

• Participating in outreach

• Achieving their personal goals

…and more. 

Improving Church Health

The last thing you want is for your church to close, which is why you should prioritize small-group promotion. Although you may not realize it, increasing participation in groups can improve your church’s health. That’s because greater participation equals greater engagement. The more people engage in groups, services, and activities, the more likely they are to become long-term members. And, as you know, long-term members are often the ones who serve, volunteer, and give—all of which is necessary for a healthy church.

How to Promote Small Groups in Church

Increasing awareness of and interest in small groups can be challenging, especially if you’ve always been wary of marketing or considered it unbiblical. However, getting the basics down can go a long way. Use the tips below for small group promotion and see participation skyrocket!

1. Communicate Clearly

It seems simple, but effective small group promotion begins with clear and consistent communication. You need to inform members about the purpose, benefits, and availability of small groups within the church. And you need to do so regularly. 

There are several communication channels you can use to notify your members about small group opportunities. For example…

• Flyers on your church bulletin board

• Announcements during services

• Newsletters (both print and digital)

• Organic social media posts

• Paid social media advertising

• A groups page on your website

But don’t just give the names of your groups. Instead, write compelling descriptions that highlight what members can look forward to by joining. Emphasize the sense of community and support they offer.

2. Use Testimonies

Don’t underestimate the power of personal testimonies. They can be incredibly effective at showing the impact of small groups. That’s because these authentic accounts serve as a form of social proof endorsing your groups. And by using them, you can inspire others to join a small group so they can experience similar benefits. 

Encourage current small group members to share their stories and testimonies. They can do this in person during services, through written testimonials, or via video presentations. Provide direction to those who are unsure about what to say. It can be as simple as explaining how they were feeling before they joined and how they feel now. 

3. Offer Variety

Diversity is key to attracting a wide range of participants to small groups. After all, a group that may work for one person may not be a good fit for another. So, offer a diverse array of small group options that cater to different… 

• Interests

• Demographics

• Life stages

• Spiritual needs

For small group promotion to be successful, you need to take a hard look at your offerings. Determine if you have enough options available to suit the various needs, interests, and preferences of your members. Consider everything from Bible studies and prayer groups to hobby clubs and support groups. 

4. Host Events

If you don’t already, organize special events and gatherings to showcase small groups. That way, you can facilitate connections among members. Host small group fairs, meet-and-greet sessions, potluck dinners, or social outings where members can learn about the different groups and meet group leaders.

And don’t forget to promote these events through church announcements, flyers, email invitations, and personal invitations from church leaders. Doing so can maximize attendance and engagement.

5. Provide Resources

Having effective leaders in place can do a lot for small-group participation. So, make sure to equip leaders with the necessary training and support to lead well. You can offer a wide range of resources, including the following:

• Leadership training sessions

• Curriculum materials

• Mentorship opportunities

Investing in the development and support of small group leaders ensures the success and sustainability of small groups within the church community.

Takeaway

Small group promotion is vital to cultivating a vibrant and thriving church community. Encouraging members to get involved not only benefits them but also your church. So, use the tips provided here to enhance the visibility and appeal of your groups. Start laying the foundation for a stronger, more connected, and more spiritually enriched congregation.