http://smallgroups.com en-us http://smallgroups.com N/A bryan@upstateimage.com Fri, 29 Aug 2008 23:44:24 -0400 20 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1628/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Misguided_Prayer.html Misguided prayer office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 02 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1609/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Mixing_Things_Up_During_Summertime.html Mixing Things Up During Summertime office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 05 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1596/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Superficial_Discussions.html Superficial Discussion office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1587/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/When_the_Group_Leader_Leaves_the_Church.html When the Leader Leaves the Church office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 06 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1582/1/The_Importance_of_Embracing_Conflict_in_Small_Groups.html If you lead a small group, sooner or later you will most likely have to deal with conflict in it. Unfortunately, conflict is a consequence of people really sharing life together. Why is it likely that there will be conflict in your group at some point? Because you cannot bring together a room full of people from different cultural, social economic, religious, and family backgrounds and expect them to always agree on every issue. jccatkinson@aol.com (John Atkinson) Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1581/1/Troubleshooting.html Small groups provide a life-changing environment and support system where members can share struggles and encourage each other. Through their nourishment, members develop and grow spiritually and even improve life skills. Small groups also build a sense of family and community. smartwords@sbcglobal.net (Teena M. Stewart) Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1580/1/Deal_With_It.html Conflict happens. You cannot always anticipate it, but you know it when you have stepped into it. The temptation is to avoid conflict, but that is a mistake! The key to handling most conflict, most of the time, is to deal with it head-on and right-away in love. reidsmith777@msn.com (Reid Smith) Mon, 03 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1579/1/Steps_for_Resolving_Small_Group_Conflict.html Tom and Nancy met in their church small group. Over time, the two developed a romantic relationship, despite their obvious differences. When they announced their intent to marry, the group members were concerned, but supported them. Unfortunately, suspicions were correct. rlowry@crossroadschristian.com (Rick Lowry) Sun, 02 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1578/1/Cantina_Man.html What do you get when you combine women, men, married people, singles, recent college grads, a middle-aged couple, Democrats, and Republicans? No, it is not a joke. It is funny, though. It is my small group. MargotStarbuck@verizon.net (Margot Starbuck) Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1577/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/The_Curriculum_Battle.html The Curriculum Battle office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 04 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1567/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/A_Plateaued_Group.html A Plateaued Group office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 06 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1556/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses.html Evaluating the Group office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1545/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/When_the_Small_Group_becomes_a_Large_Group.html When the Small Group becomes a Large Group! office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Nov 2007 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1534/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Sticking_Together_or_Breaking_Apart.html Sticking Together or Breaking Apart? office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 09 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1525/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/The_Overstretched_Leader.html The Overstretched Leader office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 09 Sep 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1515/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Coordinated_Curriculum.html Coordinated Curriculum office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1505/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Taking_a_Break_for_the_Summer.html Taking a Break for Summer office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 08 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1483/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Group_Members_Dating.html Group Members Dating office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1481/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Dominant_Group_Members.html Dominant Group Members office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 May 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1326/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Passing_the_Passion.html Passing on the Passion! office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1324/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/The_DVD_Group.html The DVD Group office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1306/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses.html Group Revival office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 05 Feb 2007 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1303/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses.html Preparing for the Future office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1286/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/The_Stealing_Group_Member.html The Stealing Group Member office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1269/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses.html A Changing Group office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 08 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1259/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Sins_of_a_Leader.html Sins of a Leader office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Aug 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1250/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Lack_of_church_leadership_support.html Lack of church leadership support office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 09 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1247/1/Treat_or_Refer.html I remember during my training to become a hospital chaplain that one of the earliest struggles I had to face was my need to be needed. Sure, I loved people…I thought. I cared about what other people cared about…I thought. I hurt when people hurt. That was true. However, one of my greatest motivations to be in the midst of ministry and in pastoral care situations was my need to be needed. rex@earlhamchurch.org (Rex L. Stancil) Sun, 02 Jul 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1238/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html Taking the Summer off? office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 04 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1235/1/Why_Dont_More_People_Attend_Small_Groups.html "We are committed to becoming a church of small groups." "Life-change happens best in small groups." "Everyone needs authentic community." These statements, and others like them, are heard often in churches around the country. Small groups have become a big deal. Churches desiring to help members connect relationally and to grow in discipleship have turned to the small group (5 to15 people meeting regularly in a home) paradigm. They have hired small group directors, highlighted groups in sermons, and promoted groups in their ministry strategy. steve@crossroadsumc.org (Steve Cordle) Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1227/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html No Room for Kids! office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 May 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1218/1/When_a_Plan_Doesnt_Come_Together.html Don't you love it when a plan comes together!? Perhaps you started a new small group and used a great new curriculum or group agenda to get it started. Everyone loved it. People grew. The group grew. Things went great…for a while. Then it came time for the group to choose the next study focus. How do you follow something that was so life-changing? dlentz@smallgroups.com (Dan Lentz) Thu, 04 May 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1219/1/Stuff_that_Happens.html If there is one thing that is true about small groups, it is that there are some common issues that happen in almost every group. These can be relatively small in scope, or they can become group destroyers. However, all of them can be avoided with just a bit of planning. jweiner@secc.org (Jon Weiner) Wed, 03 May 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1221/1/When_Smaller_Is_Better.html Sometimes issues arise in small groups that are best resolved by breaking into even smaller groups. Here are some occasions when shrinking may benefit your group. angeladionwriter@comcast.net (Angela Dion) Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1217/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html When You've Chosen the Wrong Curriculum office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 02 Apr 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1190/1/Navigating_Rough_Waters_How_to_Keep_Your_Small_Group_from_Running_Aground.html In a small group journeying toward deeper levels of community, a relational shipwreck can be just about as messy and damaging as that Alaskan disaster. The wreck can take many forms.  kengonyer@wmconnect.com (Ken Gonyer) Sat, 04 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1191/1/Colliding_with_Love.html I read through the small group covenant as I had done countless times before. I like to revisit the purpose of our small group and restate the need for commitment and confidentiality every time we begin a new study. I expected this time would be no different than the others, when agreement with the covenant was unanimous. susan_skalicky@educ8.org (Sue Skalicky) Fri, 03 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1192/1/Living_in_the_Messies.html I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I was a fairly new Christian, leading my first small group of singles. The topic was how to be happy though single and was aimed at those who just knew that life would be so much better if only they were married. My co-leader and I were prepared to challenge that assumption, and God gave us the perfect vehicle. pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Thu, 02 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1188/1/Darryls_Dilemma_Responses/Burnout.html Burnout! office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 16 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1175/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html Family Feud! office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 03 Jan 2006 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1169/1/Principles_of_Group_Closure__Good_Closure_Makes_For_Good_Beginnings.html Healthy closure of any group experience is extremely important.  Good closure to group life help members process and define their experience.  More can be learned from a group experience if that experience is remembered and understood.  Good closure of the existing group sets the stage for a good experience in the new group.  Successful closure is based around positive reflection of the group experience and casting a vision for new groups. rbrenton@netins.net (Randall S Brenton M.D.) Thu, 01 Dec 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1164/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html Choosing Curriculum office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 29 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1137/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_Others_In_The_Smallgroup_Want_To_Explore_More.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Sep 2005 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1131/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_To_Deal_With_Poor_Time_Management_With_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Aug 2005 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1125/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_Your_Smallgroup_Should_Do_About_Meeting_During_The_Summer.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Jul 2005 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1119/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_As_The_Group_Leader_When_Your_Group_Wants_To_Switch_To_The_Every_Week_Format.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1113/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_People_Attend_Smallgroup_Meetings_But_Not_Worship_At_Church.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 May 2005 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1107/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Multiplication_Plan_Is_Set_But_Something_Comes_Up_With_The_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Apr 2005 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1101/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Not_Sure_How_To_Go_About_quotClosingquot_A_Smallgroup_Down.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1056/1/Dealing_with_Conflict.html Conflict is a normal part of small group life. In fact, if we don't have conflict, someone is not being honest. People are just too different from one another to avoid it completely. bettyvw@msn.com (Betty Veldman Wieland) Fri, 04 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1057/1/Two_Keys_To_Resolving_Conflict.html It was an unusual gathering of people; not quite what we expected when we offered a small group in the home of a church member on the west side of town. myocumsg@aol.com (Marilyn Yocum) Thu, 03 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1058/1/Conflict_-_Which_Approach_Do_You_Take.html I was talking with one of our small group leaders the other day. He told me that he was really concerned that there was an elitist attitude in his group coming from the parents who had chosen to home school or private school their children. boyd@churchteams.com (Boyd Pelley) Wed, 02 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1059/1/When_Life_Happens__Prepare_to_Fight.html Participation in a small group is mostly a positive and rewarding experience, but let's face it, small groups are often fraught with conflict, tension, and problems. micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Tue, 01 Mar 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1095/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_The_Group_Leaders_Do_Everything_And_No_One_In_The_Group_Helps_Out.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Feb 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1089/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_About_Scheduling_Your_Smallgroup_Meetings.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1082/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_to_Do_About_Your_Smallgroup_Meeting_During_the_Holiday_Season.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Dec 2004 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/25/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Resolving_Conflict.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Nov 2004 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/36/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_should_they_care_their_leaders_for_12_months_coach-free.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Oct 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/45/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Where_would_you_encourage_him_to_invest_his_time_and_passion_with_small_group_leaders.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Sep 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/52/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Incorporating_the_quotempty_nestquot_couple_into_the_group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Aug 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/58/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Apprentice_leader_reconsiders_and_decides_not_to_lead_new_group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Jul 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/64/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_to_do_when_people_from_another_church_join_your_small_group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Jun 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/71/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_important_is_it_for_husband_and_wife_to_be_involved_in_the_same_small_group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 May 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/81/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Resistance_of_small_group_going_into_the_churchs_smallgroup_quotnetworkquot.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Apr 2004 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/87/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Group_members_dont_seem_to_understand_quotwhyquot_they_are_there.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Mar 2004 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/112/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_to_get_the_men_in_your_group_more_connected_with_each_other.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Feb 2004 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/118/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_should_the_group_do_after_completing_the_40-Days_of_Purpose_Campaign.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Jan 2004 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/124/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_should_the_group_do_after_completing_the_40-Days_of_Purpose_Campaign.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Dec 2003 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/130/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_should_a_new_smallgroup_leader_coach_help_his_small_group_leaders.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Nov 2003 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/136/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_smallgroup_leader_that_is_a_big_zero_outside_of_group_time.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Oct 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/142/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_simple_4-step_plan_on_how_the_church_might_go_to_the_next_level_with_small_groups.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Sep 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/149/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_simple_4-step_plan_on_how_the_church_might_go_to_the_next_level_with_small_groups.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Aug 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/156/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Changing_the_lives_of_co-workers_through_a_Bible_study_in_the_workplace.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Jul 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/176/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Group_members_resisting_to_open_the_group_up_to_new_people.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Jun 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/182/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Key_issues_of_leading_a_small_group_of_young_students_compared_to_leading_adult_groups.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 May 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/220/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Key_issues_of_leading_a_small_group_of_young_students_compared_to_leading_adult_groups.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Apr 2003 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/226/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_Newly_Married_Couple_Leading_a_Couples_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Mar 2003 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/239/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_Newly_Married_Couple_Leading_a_Couples_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Feb 2003 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/244/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Having_Too_Much_to_Do_and_How_It_Affects_the_Ability_to_Shepherd_Members_of_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Jan 2003 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/259/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Group_has_grown_large_to_the_point_where_most_group_functions_are_awkward.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Dec 2002 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/265/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_are_the_critical_skills_that_a_leader_should_focus_on.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Nov 2002 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/271/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_to_get_your_group_to_accept_someone_new_in_the_group_that_needs_to_be_in_community.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Oct 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/341/1/Taking_the_Sting_Out_Of_Criticism/Time_Tested_Paths_to_Peace_While_Under_Attack.html Many leaders struggle with appropriate ways to handle fault-finding. Some are able to turn a simple snide remark into a skirmish, a battle, and then all out war. Peace eludes them. The body of Christ wrenches in pain over the resulting turmoil. dannyvon@bellsouth.net (Danny R. Von Kanel) Fri, 04 Oct 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/290/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Going_Beyond_a_Academic_Bible_Study_and_Becoming_a_More_Caring_Community_of_Christ_Followers.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Sep 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/296/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Finding_Ways_of_Getting_People_in_a_Adult_Sunday_School_Class_to_Join_Small_Groups.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Aug 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/302/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_Group_Leader_that_Feels_Spiritualy_Dry_and_Needs_Some_Shepherding_Himself.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Jul 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/474/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Casting_the_Vison_for_Smallgroups_to_an_Older_Traditional_Church.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Jun 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/480/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_Couple_that_is_Distant_from_the_Smallgroup_Yet_They_Still_Want_to_Play_an_Active_Role_in_the_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 May 2002 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/486/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_to_Share_How_Gods_Truth_is_Changing_the_Lives_of_Group_Members_at_a_Personal_Level.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Apr 2002 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/492/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_to_Do_As_a_Smallgroup_Leader_Coach_When_One_of_Your_Leaders_is_Not_Being_Very_Effective.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Mar 2002 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/498/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Darryl_Wanders_What_Practices_are_Most_Critical_in_His_New_Role_as_A_Smallgroup_Leader_Coach.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Feb 2002 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/504/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Renewing_Your_Smallgroup_for_the_Upcoming_Year.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Jan 2002 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/508/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Group_Members_That_Feel_Disconnected_From_The_Flow_of_Community_When_They_Have_Missed_Meetings.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Dec 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/397/1/Shepherding_Broken_People.html One of the small groups in my church has been together for a few months now. Some time ago, during one of the group gatherings this icebreaker question was asked: "What's your biggest battle in life right now?" dlentz@smallgroups.com (Dan Lentz) Wed, 05 Dec 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/398/1/Here_There_Be_Dragons.html Recovery groups are the hottest ministry in many churches today, as well as in society at large. Some say that the recovery movement is dead, but the numbers certainly challenge that. pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 04 Dec 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/400/1/The_Challenge_Of_Challenging_People.html Challenging people. Wounded people. Dysfunctional people. Each year we find more of these in the church, creating a challenge for small group leaders. pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sun, 02 Dec 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/512/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_to_Handle_A_Group_Member_With_A_Discipline_Problem.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Nov 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/518/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Uncomfortable_at_Times_with_Discussions_Surrounding_Certain_Prayer_Requests.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Oct 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/411/1/Grief_in_Community.html In the wake of the recent terrorist attack on America lies a nation of people forever changed by its staggering blow. Not one person was left unaffected by this disaster. And those who are mourning are sitting in your small group. susan_skalicky@educ8.org (Sue Skalicky) Mon, 01 Oct 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/522/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Curriculum_That_Has_Worked_Well_in_the_Lives_of_Other_Group_Members.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Sep 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/526/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_Group_Leader_Wants_To_quotBirthquot_Into_Two_Groups_and_The_Members_Dont_Like_The_Idea.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Aug 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/530/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_Should_A_Group_Do_About_Meeting_During_The_Summer.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Jul 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/534/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Getting_Enjoyment_Back_Into_The_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Jun 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/538/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_to_Accept_and_Include_Someone_With_Erratic_Behavior.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 May 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/542/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Looking_For_A_Way_To_Help_Group_Members_Identify_And_Use_Their_Spiritual_Gifts.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Apr 2001 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/546/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Getting_Commitment_For_Another_Weekly_Smallgroup_Meeting_For_The_Jr-Sr_High_Youth_Program.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Mar 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/550/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Getting_Commitment_For_Another_Weekly_Smallgroup_Meeting_For_The_Jr-Sr_High_Youth_Program.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Feb 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/554/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Specific_Guidelines_To_Use_In_An_Accountability_Relationship.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Jan 2001 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/661/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_to_Reach_Out_to_New_Ethnic_Background_Individuals.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Dec 2000 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/665/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Life_Changing_Bible_Study_ApproachesCurriculums_For_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Nov 2000 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/669/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_To_Help_Increase_Smallgroup_Attendance.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Oct 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/463/1/Reviving_Your_Small_Group.html If your small group has lost some of its excitement, spice it up by implementing one or more of these ideas: angeladionwriter@comcast.net (Angela Dion) Mon, 02 Oct 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/673/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Starting_A_Smallgroup_For_Disconnected_People_At_The_Church.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Sep 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/810/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Responding_to_a_Confession_of_an_Addiction.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Aug 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/557/1/Emotional_Dependency_in_Cells/How_to_identify_and_break_the_bondage_of_dependent_relationships.html Patricia showed up without warning one evening with three squirming, unkempt and disruptive children. She was not shy about sharing her needs with our cell, and it wasn't long before this disgruntled woman had our attention. office@smallgroups.com (Steve Prokopchak) Wed, 02 Aug 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/558/1/The_Unrepentant_Person.html "No one who is born of God will continue to sin. . . .this is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not a child of God. . . " (1 John 3:9, 10) pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 01 Aug 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/814/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Participating_in_a_Service_Project.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Jul 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/817/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Who_to_Bring_As_A_Guest_Speaker_to_Your_Church_for_Your_Smallgroup_Leaders.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Jun 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/821/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_to_Find_Some_Confindence_For_a_New_Apprentice_Leader_in_a_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 May 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/825/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Smallgroup_Life_Cycles.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Apr 2000 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/828/1/Darryls_Dilemma/The_Book_of_James.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Mar 2000 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/831/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_To_Find_Continuity_In_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Feb 2000 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/834/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Helping_Your_Whole_Group_Grow_In_Christ.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Jan 2000 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/879/1/Darryls_Dilemma/A_Group_Leader_In_Need_Of_Some_Rest.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Dec 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/882/1/Darryls_Dilemma/When_There_Is_Something_Still_Missing_In_The_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Nov 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/885/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_To_Share_The_Christian_Gospel.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Oct 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/888/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_No_One_Wants_To_Lead_A_Worship_Time.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Sep 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/891/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_To_Continue_Planning_Activities_For_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Aug 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/894/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Confused_About_How_quotStrongquot_Of_A_Leader_To_Be.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Jul 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/897/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Group_Member_Is_Causing_Problems_In_The_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Jun 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/616/1/When_Its_Time_to_Confront.html Nobody likes to confront bad behavior. Most employers wait until the last possible minute before calling their subordinates on the carpet. headangler@fishingwitha.net (Steven Reames) Fri, 04 Jun 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1440/1/Confrontation.html A  Meeting Guide and Study for Your Group headangler@fishingwitha.net (Steven Reames) Thu, 03 Jun 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/617/1/Signs_of_the_Struggle.html Even faithful members of a small group struggle with sin. Maybe it is the constant urging to spend money we don't have. Or, gossiping, lying, or stretching a plain story to make a fantastic one. heartbeat@alluretech.net (Tami Rudkin) Thu, 03 Jun 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/618/1/Chronic_Lateness.html A common frustration among small group leaders is getting groups started on time. It is not unusual to be five or ten minutes past the scheduled starting time while the leader stalls waiting for the arrival of the last few members. office@smallgroups.com (Mark Whelchel) Wed, 02 Jun 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/914/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 May 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1439/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html Ted has caused a number of problems in Darryl's group inthe past. Each time, Darryl had a talk with Ted and things got better ... for a while. But now Ted's done it again. In one week, he complained about church leadership in the meeting, attacked another member with his words, and broke the confidentiality rule outside the group. Darryl knows he needs to do something, but what?  What should Darryl do? office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 03 May 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/917/1/Darryls_Dilemma/When_Most_Of_The_Group_Wont_Pray_Out_Loud.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Apr 1999 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/920/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_Your_Group_Might_Be_Off_Track.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Mar 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/630/1/When_Extra_Grace_is_Needed.html The scene has become familiar: For the fifth week in a row, an interesting study of God's Word ended with your small group huddled around a young man with a mountain of problems. office@smallgroups.com (Mark Whelchel) Wed, 03 Mar 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/631/1/Dealing_with_Miscarriage_Loss.html Last year we tragically lost a child to miscarriage. Being a visible pastoral couple, our private tragedy became public. Some people responded to our pain positively; others were not so tactful. revkwright@aol.com (Keith Wright) Tue, 02 Mar 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/632/1/When_Its_Time_for_a_Professional.html Sometimes a person in your small group needs more help than you can give---professional help from a counselor or pastor. revkwright@aol.com (Keith Wright) Mon, 01 Mar 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/923/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Feb 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1431/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html Darryl just finished William Bennett's book, TheDeath of Outrage. It is easy for Darryl to see the downward spiral our nation is on, but hey, what can one person do? What can one small group do?  What should Darryl, as leader of his small group do? office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 02 Feb 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/926/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_To_Be_Better_Equipped_and_Encouraged_In_Leading_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Jan 1999 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/643/1/Recovery_Groups_Panacea_or_Pandemonium.html Jenny approached her first meeting of the incest survivors' group with anxiety. She and her counselor had concluded that she had been sexually abused as a child. pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 08 Dec 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/929/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_To_Offer_Smallgroups_For_People_Who_Are_Hurting.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Dec 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/646/1/Nine_Ways_to_Support_Your_Support_Group.html I watched the TV screen scroll through the public service announcements, finally seeing the one I'd been looking for: "Divorce Recovery Group," it read, with information and the name of our church below. office@smallgroups.com (Dr. Randy Christian) Sat, 05 Dec 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/649/1/On_the_Road_of_Recovery/How_a_group_helped_me_heal_my_wounds.html My dad left my mom for another woman when I was 11. I was the oldest of five children, so a lot of weight fell on my small shoulders when Mom had to go back to school and get a job. micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Thu, 03 Dec 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/650/1/Reach_Out_With_Recovery.html The church I serve uses the slogan, "Central Christian Church . . . Where Needs are Met." It is often very difficult to live up to this slogan. We live in a community where the breadth and depth of needs are often staggering. office@smallgroups.com (Mark Whelchel) Wed, 02 Dec 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/932/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_Your_Smallgroup_Can_Do_For_The_Holidays.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Nov 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/934/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Reaching_Out_To_New_People_To_Invite_To_Your_Smallgroup.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Oct 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/957/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Group_Leader_Is_Burned_Out.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Sep 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/936/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Sep 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1424/1/Darryls_Dilemma.html Darryl's group meets at Norman and Nancy Neighbour's house. They are great hosts--they really know how to make people feel welcome. Norman and Nancy live on a cul-de-sac with a number of young families. But they do not know many of these people and have little contact with them besides a polite wave every once in a while. They would like to reach out to them and invite them to their group, but they don't know where to start. At tonight's meeting, they brought this up with Darryl and the rest of the group. What should Darryl and the group do? office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 03 Sep 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/938/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Child_Care_Options_For_Smallgroups.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Aug 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1421/1/Spread_the_Wealth.html Darryl likes leading his group both facilitating meetings and shepherding the group. But there is one thing he does not like doing: hosting the meeting each week. He never has time to clean up the house ...and it shows. When people are arriving, he's usually still sweeping the floor, doing dishes, or some other task he doesn't like doing anyway. He'd love to prepare wonderful culinary concoctions, but his cuisine usually consists of chips and dip.  What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Fri, 03 Jul 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1419/1/Too_Many_People.html Darryl's group has grown over the last several months and the problem now is that some people, especially the quiet ones, rarely get a chance to talk. Darryl is feeling overwhelmed trying to lead these people.  What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Wed, 03 Jun 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/942/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Inviting_New_People_To_The_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 May 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1417/1/THE_ART_OF_INVITATION.html Several people in Darryl’s group have moved away and now the group is down to five people. He wants to bring new life to the group. Darryl’s not really sure where to start in inviting new people.  What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sun, 03 May 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/944/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_To_Find_Your_Smallgroups_Course.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Apr 1998 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1415/1/Well_What_is_our_Course.html Darryl's group has been a group for more than a year now, but he is wondering why exactly they are a group. They seem to have a good time together and they have had some good studies, but the group just seems to be off course to Darryl. He asked the rest of the group what they feel about this and one guy in the group asked, "Well, what is our course?" Darryl wasn't sure how to answer that, and neither did anyone else.   What should Darryl Do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Fri, 03 Apr 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/710/1/How_Can__We_Minister_Without_Meddling.html A couple in our group is having serious marital problems. A divorce is very possible. How can we help without "intruding" or going beyond the amount of "ministry" group members should perform? micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Sat, 07 Mar 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/711/1/What_to_Do_for_Crying_Out_Loud.html You are leading your Bible study one evening when a member suddenly starts crying, apparently for no reason. what do you do? micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Fri, 06 Mar 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/712/1/What_to_Do_When_No_One_Shows.html Have you ever held a small-group meeting where no one showed up? Rather than feeling resentment, try these steps to help avoid this situation in the future. micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Thu, 05 Mar 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1413/1/Conflict_is_Good.html God uses conflict, disagreements, even pain in groups. He works through these "obstacles" to bring about his purposes. How? micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Wed, 04 Mar 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/713/1/Concerns_of_Small_Group_Members.html Murphy Belding, small groups minister at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, put together for his leaders a list of eight concerns of small group members. mbelding@secc.org (Murphy Belding) Wed, 04 Mar 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/714/1/The_Problems_With_Starting_Small_Groups.html Our congregation is not working with small groups, but I am very interested in organizing a group of widows (mostly). micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Tue, 03 Mar 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/947/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Smallgroup_Leader_Is_Worn_Out.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sat, 07 Feb 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1412/1/The_Worn-Out_Leader.html Darryl is worn out. Leading his group keeps him busy constantly, and that's on top of his family and job. And forget about recreation! Each week he plans the meeting: icebreaker, Bible study, worship, and prayer time; he makes plans for the group to do service projects together because several members have said they wanted to do that; and he lines up child care, social activities, and just about everything else for the group. He's been doing this since the group began a couple years ago (it seems like 10 to Darryl!).  What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 03 Feb 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/949/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_About_Meeting_During_The_Holiday_Season.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Jan 1998 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/951/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_About_Meeting_During_The_Holiday_Season.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Dec 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1409/1/Bible_Study_or_Relationships.html Darryl received some great advice from readers last month on how to handle the holidays. He decided to scrap the normal Bible study through December and have a couple social get-togethers instead. But this raised another issue when he brought it up in his group. How important is study and learning in a group, anyway? Darryl's group was equally divided. Some said that a small group is more for community building and caring for one another than for serious study. They said they wouldn't mind if Darryl dumped the study most of the time anyway, They come for the fellowship and they love the intimacy. The rest of the group said they think learning happens best in a small group. It's there that they can really dig into the Scriptures and apply them to their lives. They said they come to the group each week to "get into the Word," not just do "touchy-feely" stuff. They fear becoming out-of-balance with sound doctrine and laying the groundwork for a man-centered group that focuses on therapy rather than Scripture. Darryl sees both sides of this dilemma, but doesn't know what to do.  What Should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 02 Dec 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/953/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_About_Meeting_During_The_Holiday_Season.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Nov 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/728/1/Prescriptions_for_a_Healthy_Group.html You're getting fat. Too many Ho Ho's. Not enough exercise. You're constantly sick and nearly anemic. If you don't do something soon, this may turn into something really serious. micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Tue, 04 Nov 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1407/1/Handling_The_Holidays.html With the holidays coming up, Darryl is starting to wonder what to do to "make the season bright." Everyone in the group is so busy with parties, musicals, gift buying, and other things that Darryl isn't sure whether he should try to convene the group for the next month and a half or not. The group would surely miss each other, but they're so busy, too.  What Can Darryl Do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sun, 02 Nov 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/731/1/Signs_of_the_Struggle.html Even faithful members of a small group struggle with sin. Maybe it is the constant urging to spend money we don't have. Or, gossiping, lying, or stretching a plain story to make a fantastic one. heartbeat@alluretech.net (Tami Rudkin) Sat, 01 Nov 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/955/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Group_Leader_Is_Burned_Out.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Tue, 07 Oct 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/732/1/Six_Reasons_American_Small-Group_Ministries_Fail.html Small-group systems in countries like Korea have exploded in evangelistic growth. Most American small-group ministries have not done so well. Why? An article in Ministries Today (May/June 1993) speculates on five reasons. micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Sat, 04 Oct 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1404/1/Balancing_the_Meeting_Time.html   It happened again last night. Darryl led a great discussion of the Bible study, but there was no time left--again--at the end for prayer and worship. Darryl knows how important prayer is, but the group time is just an hour and a half, and he never has time for prayer. He'd also like to include worship in the meetings, but how?  How can Darryl keep a healthy balance in his meeting time? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Thu, 02 Oct 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1402/1/Extra_Grace_Required.html If you\'ve been reading Darryl\'s Dilemmas for a while, you know that many of the people in Darryl\'s group are \"high need.\" They are what Carl George has called EGR\'s (Extra Grace Required) or ECR\'s (Extra Care Required). Some have many health problems, while others have some emotional instabilities. Darryl is tired most of the time from caring for this group. He loves these people, and he want to help them, but he is getting burned out.  What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Mon, 01 Sep 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/959/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_To_Have_Group_Members_Have_More_In_Common_With_One_Another.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Aug 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1400/1/An_Age-Old_Problem.html Bob and Betty are older adult members of Darryl's group. They are both in their mid-seventies. The rest of the group is in their twenties and thirties. This has been a good situation since the group's inception a year and a half ago, but a few members have recently told Darryl they wished the group members "had more in common with one another."  What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sat, 02 Aug 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/961/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_Children_Want_To_Interrupt_Meetings.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 07 Jul 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1396/1/Dealing_with_Conflict_Among_Members.html Connie Conflict and Annie Anger are neighbors. They hate one another. No one is quite sure when the animosity began, although there are lots of stories. Each of them joined the group without knowing that the other was also joining. Now you have open warfare on your hands. Each has steadfastly declared that she won't leave and let the other win. What can you do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Thu, 05 Jun 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/963/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Person_Has_No_Interest_In_A_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 May 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1394/1/Claude_Cult.html Claude Cult has no interest in your Bible study-other than to lead its members away to his cult. Yes, there are cults that are known for infiltrating and destroying Christian groups. Their members are well-versed in Scripture, and you may find yourself rejoicing at having such a knowledgeable person in your group. But beware. These cults talk about Jesus, but they don't know Him or serve Him. And they will devour the lambs if you aren't careful. What do you do if you find yourself in such a situation? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sat, 03 May 1997 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/966/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_To_Deal_With_Difficult_Problems_In_Your_Group.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Mar 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/968/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Group_Member_Shares_Other_Peoples_Information.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Feb 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1386/1/Griselda_Gossip.html Griselda Gossip can’t help herself. Every time someone in the group discloses a deep personal need, Griselda finds someone else to share it with. She doesn’t do this maliciously. Sometimes she’s simply sharing a prayer request that isn’t hers to share. When the word gets back to the group members they stop sharing and the group begins to lose its vitality. What’s the solution? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sun, 02 Feb 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1384/1/WHAT_ABOUT_THE_KIDS.html Darryl has a number of couples in his group with children. The ages of the children range from a nursing infant to several junior highers. Darryl has tried a number of child care options, but nothing seems to work. One couple in the group who have older kids would like to have the kids in the meeting time, but Darryl is afraid this will be a huge disruption. What should Darryl do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sat, 04 Jan 1997 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/769/1/Griselda_Gossip.html "A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret" (Proverbs 11:13). pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Mon, 02 Dec 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1382/1/Arthur_Argumentative--The_Argumentative_Person.html Arthur Argumentative loves a good “discussion.” He doesn’t see what he’s doing as being argumentative. He just enjoys a lively exchange. The problem is that his aggressive nature offends or scares the other members. Sometimes he even gets a little personal, calling the responses of others “dumb” or “crazy.” Note that we’re not talking here about a lively, spirited discussion. That’s our goal! People will get a bit excited if they’re engrossed in a challenging discussion. That’s what we want. But Arthur has moved beyond lively and spirited. He’s downright rude. How can you deal with someone who steps over the line from discussion to argument? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sat, 02 Nov 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1378/1/Clancy_Cliche--The_Person_Who_Uses_Jargon.html Clancy Cliché has a well-worn answer for everything. He’s full of jargon, especially Christianese, and seldom conveys much of anything. He’s quick to offer a pious non-answer, but you can’t get him to delve deeply enough beneath the surface to respond with a meaningful answer. He always has advice for people with prayer requests, and it’s usually something like, “Just trust and obey and everything will turn out OK.” You wish you could hide behind the nearest bush! How can you reach Clancy? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Mon, 02 Sep 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1374/1/Willy_Wrong--The_Person_Who_Doesnt_Understand.html Willy Wrong seldom has the right answer—even if the question has several possible answers. Sometimes it’s as if he answers a different question than you ask. Maybe he’s just slow. Maybe he doesn’t listen well. He’s not trying to be funny, but sometimes it ends up that way. After all, how could anyone come up with the answers he does? You hate to embarrass the guy, but what can you do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sat, 03 Aug 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/839/1/Prescriptions_for_a_Healthy_Group.html You're getting fat. Too many Ho Ho's. Not enough exercise. You're constantly sick and nearly anemic. If you don't do something soon, this may turn into something really serious. micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Wed, 03 Jul 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1370/1/Yolanda_Yawner--The_Bored_Person.html Yolanda Yawner is always bored. You can see it in her eyes. You can hear it in her yawns. You know it for sure when she pulls her nail file out and starts doing her nails. You\'re not sure why she\'s here, but she sure doesn\'t contribute much. What can you do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Mon, 01 Jul 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/975/1/Darryls_Dilemma/How_To_Deal_With_A_Group_Member_Who_Has_A_Serious_Emotional_Or_Psychological_Difficulty.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Fri, 07 Jun 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1365/1/Peter_Problem--The_Emotionally_Disturbed_Person.html Peter Problem doesn't quite fit in. It took you awhile to figure it out, but he really does have a serious emotional or psychological difficulty. He may suffer from undiagnosed or untreated paranoia, schizophrenia, depression, or any number of other disorders. The key for you is that his problem is manifesting itself in unacceptable ways and is disrupting the group. Of all the problems in this section, this is probably the most difficult for a lay person to deal with. So what do you do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Sat, 01 Jun 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1361/1/Donna_Dogmatic--The_Legalistic_Person.html Donna Dogmatic is the first cousin of Stanley Spiritual. She's legalistic, dogmatic, and doesn't care whose toes she steps on. There's no hint of grace in her attitude. She pronounces her responses to questions with such a finality that no one dares suggest a different opinion. She has a copyright on the words "critical spirit." How can you offer constructive criticism to the person who's always right? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Thu, 02 May 1996 00:00:00 -0400 http://smallgroups.com/articles/978/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Group_Member_Says_They_Seem_To_Receive_Divine_Inspiration_For_Every_Response.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 07 Apr 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1357/1/Stanley_Spiritual--The_quotSuper-Spiritualquot_Person.html Stanley Spiritual receives divine inspiration for every response. He prefaces each answer with, "The Lord told me . . ." The problem with this is that he may make the rest of the group feel as if he has a private line to God. The problem is compounded if he's theologically off base in his responses. How can you help Stanley? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Wed, 03 Apr 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/980/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_To_Help_A_Group_Member_Grow.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Thu, 07 Mar 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/982/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_When_A_Group_Member_Tries_To_Answer_All_The_Questions_Without_Giving_Others_A_Chance.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Wed, 07 Feb 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1350/1/Dynamic_and_Not-So-Dynamic_Meetings.html After literally hundreds of small group meetings and while serving as a consultant of small groups ministry, last week I led what I would classify as the absolutely worst small group meeting ever (but the best example for teaching here). rdamon@valleycc.org (Robert Damon) Fri, 02 Feb 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/910/1/Polly_Prayerless_The_Person_Who_Wont_Pray_Aloud.html Polly Prayerless contributes well to the group, but she simply won't pray aloud. In fact, before the first meeting she warned you that she wasn't one to pray in a group. pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Thu, 01 Feb 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1346/1/Quentin_Quiet_The_Silent_Individual/_Why_Didnt_You_Warn_Me.html Quentin Quiet never says a word. You know he’s done his homework, but he’s just not comfortable talking in front of the group. You don’t want to ignore him, but you also don’t want to push him. What can you do? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 02 Jan 1996 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/996/1/Managing_Conflict.html Potential Areas of Conflict rdamon@valleycc.org (Robert Damon) Tue, 05 Dec 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/998/1/Small_Group_Quotes/John_Maxwell_on_Handling_Conflict.html "Public criticism and cutting conversations, even in jest, can hurt. If you have to give criticism, remember that it takes nine positive comments to balance one negative correction." lymancoleman@aol.com (Lyman Coleman) Mon, 04 Dec 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1340/1/Conflict_Is_Good/_From_the_Editor.html God uses conflict, disagreements, even pain in groups. He works through these "obstacles" to bring about his purposes. How? micmac@smallgroups.com (Michael C. Mack) Fri, 01 Dec 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1338/1/Handling_Conflict.html Imagine a home with a sign on the front door, "Conflict is Expected and Welcome!" Most of us would panic when we saw that sign, especially if it was the location where a small group was meeting. rdamon@valleycc.org (Robert Damon) Fri, 01 Dec 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1005/1/Why_Didnt_You_Warn_Me/The_Quiet_Group.html   pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Tue, 07 Nov 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1006/1/Darryls_Dilemma/Trying_To_Be_A_Peacemaker.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Mon, 06 Nov 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/984/1/Darryls_Dilemma/What_To_Do_At_The_Beginning_Of_A_Discussion_To_Get_The_Group_More_Involved.html   office@smallgroups.com (The Small Group Network Community) Sun, 05 Nov 1995 00:00:00 -0500 http://smallgroups.com/articles/1337/1/The_Quiet_Group.html Your group responds to every question you ask with a deafening silence. You ask a question, and after what seems like an eon, no one has ventured a response. This problem is especially prevalent in a new group or in the first few minutes of a discussion. Now what? pat@mightyoakministries.com (Pat J. Sikora) Thu, 02 Nov 1995 00:00:00 -0500