Small Groups in the Wesleyan Way

Called by a variety of names: discipleship groups, cell groups, life groups, etc. what exactly constitutes a small group? Scott and Steve explore this question with the help of Jacqui King (Director of Congregational Vitality) from Discipleship Ministries. The Small Groups in the Wesleyan Way podcast is where we are all about going beyond curriculum, beyond programs, beyond best practices to recover and learn from our Wesleyan roots and to explore the foundations for small groups that produce disciples of Jesus Christ who in turn disciple others. Scott Hughes is the Director of Adult Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries. Steve Manskar is Director of Wesleyan Leadership and Covenant Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries.

How does our theology provide support and structure for small group ministry? Building on episode 1 (Biblical basis for small groups), Scott and Steve take a deep dive into how Wesleyan theology can give guidance to small group ministries. Steve also surveys the early Wesleyan methodology for disciple making. The Small Groups in the Wesleyan Way podcast is where we are all about going beyond curriculum, beyond programs, beyond best practices to recover and learn from our Wesleyan roots and to explore the foundations for small groups that produce disciples of Jesus Christ who in turn disciple others. Scott Hughes is the Director of Adult Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries. Steve Manskar is Director of Wesleyan Leadership and Covenant Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries.

What does Scripture affirm about small groups? Scott and Steve explore four passages that help ground small group ministry. Steve also discusses the Methodist movement’s use of the trial bands. The Small Groups in the Wesleyan Way podcast is where we are all about going beyond curriculum, beyond programs, beyond best practices to recover and learn from our Wesleyan roots and to explore the foundations for small groups that produce disciples of Jesus Christ who in turn disciple others. Scott Hughes is the Director of Adult Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries. Steve Manskar is Director of Wesleyan Leadership and Covenant Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries.

People inside and outside of our churches are hungering for places that feel smaller and offer welcome, connection, and belonging. Small groups offer that and so much more. In this session, we will hear a unique perspective from Rev. Motoe Yamada Foor who serves at the Sacramento Japanese United Methodist Church, the Garden Church. Pastor Motoe will help us explore the essential elements of a small groups and casting a vision for small groups among other important ideas. To participate in the online course for free, visit smallgroups.umcdiscipleship.org.

Scott interviews Rev. Dave Barnhart pastor at Saint Junia United Methodist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. Saint Junia is a network of house churches that is intentional about participation, justice ministries, and discipleship formation. Learn more about Rev. Barnhart at https://www.ministrymatters.com/all/author/david_barnhart