2004
Small Groups need to take a break in the summer! For years I have heard negative responses to this suggestion as “our group is just great and we don’t want to do things differently. We’ll be fine”. Then in early September when groups are starting up with renewed vigor, the groups quoted above are looking for a break and probably will start later in the fall! Take time this summer to regroup, be less intensive and enjoy each other’s company in casual settings. Try some of these ideas:

• If you meet every week, meet every other week 
• Meet over a meal such as a cook-out or picnic
• If children have been separate with a sitter, include them
• Spend more time in fellowship and relationship building
• Choose a topical study with less intensity of study
• Consider a devotional for scripture study
• Get involved in a mission project within your church or community
• Evaluate group experience and make necessary future changes  
• Set the beginning date and time for September 
• Pray about and invite new people for summer activities 
• Consider forming two groups in the fall

The main idea is to take a break from the usual routine, enjoy your summer time together with less group structure and be ready to dig in come fall. Use you imagination and have fun!