CONNECTIONS: December Newsletter for Small Group Leaders
Dear Small Group Leaders,
As we enter December, our church theme of CONNECTIONS couldn't be more timely. While our groups take a break this month, the relationships we've built don't pause—and neither does our opportunity to deepen them.
Devotional: The God Who Connects
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." – Hebrews 10:24-25
Connection is at the heart of God's design for His church. When Jesus walked the earth, He didn't just preach to crowds—He invested deeply in twelve men, sharing meals, conversations, and life with them. The early church thrived not in mega-gatherings alone, but in homes where believers broke bread, prayed, and "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship" (Acts 2:42).
This December, as the world rushes through holiday busyness, we have a unique opportunity. While our formal group meetings are on hold, we can model what connection truly means—reaching out with a text, making a phone call, meeting for coffee, or simply letting someone know they're thought of and prayed for.
Connection isn't just about filling a room; it's about filling hearts with the love of Christ. And sometimes, the most meaningful connections happen in the most unexpected moments—a quick conversation after church, a shared meal, or an invitation to join you at a Christmas event.
Reflect: Who in your group needs to hear from you this month? Who might God be prompting you to invite into community when January arrives?
Connecting During December: Practical Ideas
Even though groups aren't meeting formally this month, here are some ways to stay connected and even expand your circle:
For Current Group Members:
Send a group text or email with a Christmas blessing or prayer
Meet individually for coffee or hot chocolate
Invite members to attend church events together
Drop off a small gift, card, or plate of cookies
Share a favorite Christmas tradition or recipe in your group chat
Plan a casual get-together—nothing formal, just connection
For Potential New Members:
The holidays are a perfect time to extend invitations! People are often more open to connection during this season
Invite someone you've met at church to join you at one of our December events
Mention that your group will be starting fresh in January—a natural entry point for newcomers
Ask God to bring specific people to mind who might benefit from your group
Looking Ahead: Wednesday Night Groups
We're looking for leaders like you to step up! We're seeking those interested in teaching a 9-week Wednesday night Experience Class. These classes will kick off on Wednesday, January 7, so don't delay!
If you're interested, please let me know what topic you'd like to teach on. Pray about how God might use you to connect with people in a new way through a Wednesday evening group.
A Challenge for This Month
This December, commit to making at least three intentional connections:
Reach out to someone in your current group
Connect with someone new who might be a good fit for your group
Attend one church event with the goal of deepening or creating connections
Remember, small groups restart in January, and there's no better time than now to lay the groundwork for a strong start. The connections you make this month could change someone's life in the year ahead.
Thank you for your faithful leadership. You are making an eternal difference.