Top 5 reasons people give for not joining a home group
- It sounds awkward, boring, and too ‘touchy-feely’; I don’t want to be put on the spot, or forced to talk or pray out loud.
- I don’t want to look stupid, or for people to find out I’m not a perfect Christian.
- I don’t have anything to offer.
- I’m all right going it alone; I prefer to just come on Sundays.
- I don’t have time.
Top 5 reasons people give for joining a home group
- People tend to find groups relaxed, comfortable, open and safe places to meet and befriend people, and to learn and grow in their faith. No one is forced into anything they are not comfortable with. Groups have fun in their meetings and social get-togethers!
- As Jesus would, groups come alongside one another in their victories and struggles, rather than judging. No one is perfect or knows it all! We are all on a journey of mutual support and discovery.
- People often find they have something to offer they weren’t even aware of, which someone else finds really helpful. We can learn loads about ourselves when we try to encourage others. Scripture promises that everyone has experience, insights and gifts to share.
- Because we are designed to live in community, meeting regularly with people we come to trust and love is extremely good for our emotional and spiritual health. Overwhelmingly, people in home groups vouch that they find not only enormous support in those areas, but practical help, especially in their times of need.
- Groups generally meet for one and a half to two hours fortnightly on a variety of days and times. Most people could find a bit of free time to swap. It is a ‘big bang for the buck’ when we weigh investment against the yield that home group members enthuse about!
You can find out more about home groups here. As Home Group Coordinator, I am more than happy to chat this through with anyone to answer questions, or to help find the group that best suits you and your schedule. Please get in touch with me via the church office or come up and chat on a Sunday.
Laura Simpkins