Great Groups: Recent Episodes
Jay Gordon & Chris Amaro
Great Groups are small groups that focus on making disciples. We built the podcast to encourage and equip adult small group leaders at Brook Hills and beyond.
In this episode, Jay and Chris are joined by Laura Chramer offering color commentary as we all discuss a set of questions used to evaluate your group. Jay discovered the questions in an article by Josh Hunt on the Small Group Network. We added a few from the staff and also asked AI, so the list of questions is immense. Don't feel overwhelmed by this. One comment on the podcast is that you'll have a great group if you teach for transformation, build community, and live on mission as a group. If you'd like to look through the questions as you think about the effectiveness of your group, just click the link below.
Small Group Evaluation Questions
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Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris are joined by Laura Chramer offering color commentary as we all discuss a set of questions used to evaluate your group. Jay discovered the questions in an article by Josh Hunt on the Small Group Network. We added a few from the staff and also asked AI, so the list of questions is immense. Don't feel overwhelmed by this. One comment on the podcast is that you'll have a great group if you teach for transformation, build community, and live on mission as a group. If you'd like to look through the questions as you think about the effectiveness of your group, just click the link below.
Small Group Evaluation Questions
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In Today’s Episode:
Jay and Chris sit down with guests John Mark and Keilah Carter to chat about life, leadership, and what’s happening in their Small Group. It’s always fun to hear from fellow leaders—and maybe even steal a few good ideas!
We start by learning about John Mark and Keilah’s backgrounds, work, and hobbies before diving into a rich conversation about their group . Topics include:
- Their current Bible study and favorite resources
- The different roles people play in their group
- How they do community nights and global missions
- Scripture memorization and why it matters
- Group meeting format and use of breakout groups
- Evangelism and sharing their faith
- Group leadership succession and changes
There’s a lot to unpack in this episode—so come join the conversation and get inspired to your own group well!
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
Culture shapes everything we do in Small Groups. It can be defined as the shared beliefs, values, behaviors, and practices of a particular group of people. Each group, to some degree, has it's own individual culture. We want our groups to reflect Biblical values through their culture. Join us and give some thought to the culture of your small group as we investigate what it is, why it matters, and how leaders can influence it intentionally.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
Culture shapes everything we do in Small Groups. It can be defined as the shared beliefs, values, behaviors, and practices of a particular group of people. Each group, to some degree, has it's own individual culture. In this episode, Jay and Chris are joined by Elisabeth Chramer as a guest co-host to discuss group culture - what we'd like to see in our groups and how to lead toward that. Join us and give some thought to the culture of your small group as we investigate what it is, why it matters, and how leaders can influence it intentionally.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Rick Howerton, a nationally-known and respected leader in Small Group Ministry and Jay's favorite in that category. Rick is a consultant, author, and former groups pastor. His writings include A Different Kind of Tribe, and The Perpetually Growing Church. Tune in and hear discussions on disciple-making, on and off-campus group distinctions, and much more.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris share practical ways to kick off your small group with momentum as a new year begins. They cover essential tips on effective communication, prayer, creating a welcoming atmosphere for new members, casting vision, and encouraging faithful attendance. Plus, they highlight the importance of thoughtful planning—and yes, the power of offering food at that first meeting! Tune in to make sure you’ve checked all the boxes for a strong and meaningful start.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Chris and Emily Self about their Small Group's recent trip to Memphis to serve with Refugee Memphis & Send Relief. Listen and get some ideas about how your group can go on missionl
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Bill Brown joins Jay and Chris to share a unique approach to group meetings—walking through the entire Bible, one book per week. Tune in as they explore how this fast-paced journey can deepen understanding, and how tools like AI and Logos Bible Software can enhance the experience.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ways to take the stress out of leading. You'll hear some long-term tips as well as some tips to apply when life is coming at you fast. Listen in and learn how you can lead with less stress.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris sit down with Chris Kinsley to explore how his group is leading the way in two key areas: building deep relationships and embracing a group mission partnership. You'll hear practical insights and fresh inspiration to help you lead your own group more effectively. And if Chris’s voice sounds familiar—it’s because it is! He is our guest and our announcer.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this special anniversary episode, Jay and Chris reflect on five years of podcasting together. They dive into memorable moments, behind-the-scenes bloopers, and a few laughs along the way. But at the heart of the episode is a meaningful celebration: “5 Years, 5 Tips” — their top five insights for leading small groups, lists which they created independently, but reveal live during the recording — no spoilers, just real-time reactions, and candid conversation. Tune in to hear their biggest takeaways, surprises, and the practical wisdom they’ve gained over the years.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay talks with Dawn Stephens, Brook Hills' Women's Minister, about developing leaders. The session is an overview of her breakout session at the Fall 2024 SG Leader Gathering. The complete title was Building a Leadership Team in Your Group: Developing Leaders is a Win-Win. It's a win for you as a leader, and it's a win because the process prepares others to lead. Listen and hear some ways you can develop leaders.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, we’re revisiting the keynote message from our February Small Group Leader Gathering, featuring John Butterfield. John unpacks how people grow—one small, consistent step at a time—and why helping others take those steps is key to leading well. Tune in to hear practical insights on how we can guide growth in the three core priorities of our church.
Small Groups Staff Book Reccomendations:
Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect, by Will Guidera (John Butterfield)
The Other Half of Church: Christian Community, Brain Science, and Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation, by Jim Wilder and Michael Hendricks (Ashley Chesnut)
Workplace Grace: Becoming a Spiritual Influence at Work, by Bill Peel & Walt Larimore (Jay Gordon)
A Place to Belong: Learning to Love the Local Church, by Megan Hill (Dawn Stephens)
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Chris Robbins about Leading Group Meetings Well: How to Lead Intentionally and Overcome Common Problems. The session is an overview of the breakout Chris led at our Fall 2024 SG Leader Gathering. Listen and hear three strategies Chris embraces with his group.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Chip and Brooks join Jay and Christ to discuss Ramadan-what it is and why Christ-followers should take note and pray for Muslims across the world during this holiday. Join in and hear some stories from the field and be inspired to pray during Ramadan.
Email for Ramadan Info from Chip (chip@brookhills.org).
IMB Prayer Page
(The International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention)
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with John Butterfield as we revisit his breakout session from the Fall Small Group Leader Gathering. His session was entitled "The What and Why of Small Groups: Why We Do Small Groups and What We Seek to Accomplish."
See our purpose statements as a church.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
Brook Hills' missionaries serve in tough places and they deeply need our support. Groups can have a global impact by building strong, supportive relationships with them. Join Chris and Jay as we talk to a group leader who has led his group well in that area.
Suggested Missionary Support Ideas for Groups
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Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, we review a recent live class at Brookhills entitled Leading Group Meetings 101: The First Things You Need to Know. In this episode, Chris joins us to discuss preparation, study and organization of content, asking good questions, staying on track, and much more. Join us to see if reviewing the basics is helpful to you.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, we review a recent live class at Brookhills entitled Leading Group Meetings 101: The First Things You Need to Know. In this episode, Chris joins us to discuss preparation, study and organization of content, asking good questions, staying on track, and much more. Join us to see if reviewing the basics is helpful to you.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Luke Long fills in for Chris Amaro as we host Parker Snider, Brook Hills' Young Adult Minister in a conversation about hospitality. We're recapping the breakout sessions from our Fall 2024 Leader Gatherng. The official breakout title was "Building Biblical Community & Hospitality: How to Help People Connect with One Another and With Guests." Listen in and gain some tips for connecting members to one another and connecting guests to the group.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
David McKnight and Mike Joiner are our guest for the topic "Leading Your Group Outside the Walls: Serving Together and Individually". This was one of our breakouts at the Fall 2024 Small Group Leader Gathering and we went to bring everyone the content from that session. Visit GreatGroups.org to listen, or better yet, subscribe to The Great Groups Podcast on your favorite podcast app. That way you'll never miss an episode.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss things to pray for your Small Group and for the Small Groups Ministry at Brook Hills or your own church, if different. Listen in and learn some things to pray for your group. Please consider adding the items below to your personal prayer list.
List of Things to Pray for Your Group
Great Groups BuzzSprout Website
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Lifetime Show Notes
Brook Hills Pages:
- The Church at Brook Hills, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Small Group Leader Resources Page
- Small Group Discipleship Resources
- Small Groups @ Brook Hills
In this episode, Jay interviews Ashley Chesnut, Brook Hills' Associate Minister of Young Adults. We are reviewing breakouts from our Fall Small Group Leader Gathering. The full title of Ashley's breakout was Choosing Curriculum for Your Group: Identifying Where Your People Are and Selecting What's Next. Join us for some thoughts on choosing curriculum for your Small Group.
Choosing Curriculum Handout
Psalm 119 Small Group Template
Brook Hills' Recommended Curriculum
Brook Hills Leader Resources
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Luke Long, our new Adults & Small Groups Intern at Brook Hills. Join us to get to know Luke and hear his passion for Small Groups that has been passed down from his father and grandfather.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, we begin a series looking back on the breakout sessions from our Fall Small Group Leader Gathering. Those include Evangelism, New Groups, Meetings, Serving, Philosophy of Groups, Curriculum, Biblical Community & Hospitality, Leadership Teams, and Discipe-making. Today, we begin the series with Chris Amaro, both special guest and co-host, who led a breakout session on Starting New Groups & Multiplication. Listen and see how starting groups is like the movie, A Wonderful Life.
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Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ten thoughts on pursuing the spiritual growth of your group members. Here are the thoughts we'll dive into.
- Pray for the spiritual growth of your group.
- Expect spiritual growth. Don't be content without it.
- Model spiritual maturity for them.
High Potency + Clear Communication + Close Proximity + God's Hand = Maximum Impact (Maximum Spiritual Growth) - Be transparent about your spiritual highs and lows.
- Help them Build spiritual disciplines.
a. Get them in the Word daily.
b. Get them praying daily.
c. Encourage scripture memory - Expose them to challenging activities. (Let them stretch their faith.)
- Expose them to examples of spiritual maturity.
- Challenge the group with specific steps they can take.
Hear Chris' reaction to the too-general statement, "Y'all go and be better Christians this week." - Once you build a relationship, don't be afraid to ask some probing questions.
a. What are you reading in the Bible?
b. How is God growing you?
c. Would you consider reading a Bible plan with me? - Consider entering an intentional discipleship relationship with a few people in your group. See the link below.
Disciple-making Quick Start Guide
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Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, we'll hear our Pastor, Matt Mason, as we look back to the Fall 2024 Small Group Leader Gathering. His talk is entitled Three Big "Ones": Encouragement for Ministry and Mission. It includes One Passion: Cultivating our Walk with the Lord, One Posture: Eager Reception of God's Word and Application of It, and One Mission: Gospel Conversations. Listen in to be encouraged by Matt's talk.
Send us a text
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Nathan and Blair Sherman about things that are going well in their group. This is a follow-up to their brief discussion on a panel during Brook Hills' recent Faith Family Gathering. There were so many things to dig into that we made it two podcasts. Here is the first.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Nathan and Blair Sherman about things that are going well in their group. This is a follow-up to their brief discussion on a panel during Brook Hills' recent Faith Family Gathering. There were so many things to dig into that we made it two podcasts. Here is the first.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Wade and Joan K to learn about their background and call to missions and hear stories about what God is doing in Slovenia, where they serve. We want to help Small Group Leaders see that some future missionaries may very well be in your Small Group now. Let's keep mission work and missionaries in front of our group members and see what God does.
After the podcast, the stories kept rolling. We regret that we couldn't keep recording or make two podcasts out of their stories. God is at work. We heard about the church in Domzale praying the Psalms, about an architect, we said she now believes in Jesus, about Reformation Day ministry by the church members, and about events that meet the needs of people there.
Prayer Points
1. For the salvation of many people, particularly U, S, and M to come to Christ this year.
2. For the KW's and their kids as they are apart, that the kids would be secure and spiritually healthy, and that God would put people in their lives to minister to them.
3. Pray for the health of the church in Domzale and for Goran and Metke Macura, who also lead the church.
KW Slovenia Info & Support Page
Let's join them on Thursdays at Noon as they meet at 7:00pm there to pray.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In Episode 114, Brennan Strain joins Jay and Chris as they all share ideas for starting the new group year strong following our summer break. We are introducing a new format that we plan to use fairly often - a mix of interview and color commentary. It's just more fun with more people, especially people you haven't heard from yet. Brennan co-leads a young adult group along with his wife, Kasi, and Stephen and Kimberlee Brooks.
Suggested document:
Brook Hills Small Group Values & Great Conversation- The first group meeting of the year is a great time to share this with your group.
Summer Survey used by Brennan's Group - We just built a sample in a google doc so you wouldn't actually contribute to their survey.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris host Grayson and Lucy Gayle to hear stories about how their group has been on mission for Christ. From the very start, the Gayles have been very intentional about equipping and engaging in evangelism as a group. And the group is all in. Join us to get some tips that you can apply in your group
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Dale Kendrick and Chris Robbins about their Small Group. They use a weekly email to communicate with their group, discussing what they studied last week, looking forward to the coming week, and sometimes giving some homework that links to the upcoming meeting. Listen and hear how they use that and more to build community in their group.
Here's the KR (Kendrick-Robbins Small Group) annual survey.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Rus Goodwin, Brook Hills' Pastoral Care Minister and part of our Member Care Team. We take a few minutes to get to know Rus and then discuss the overlap of pastoral care and groups. Listen and hear how Rus can help you and the members of your group. You can also help Rus coordinate the work of meeting needs.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris react to Small Group Leader responses to our Spring Snapshot. It's an electronic form we use at Brook Hills to check vital signs for our groups and get feedback from our leaders. We specifically discuss the answers to two questions: 1) STRENGTHS: What are some positive things happening in your group? and 2) STRUGGLES: What challenges is your group experiencing? Listen in and hear some feedback and a few tips along the way.
Referenced Documents:
Spring 2024 Snapshot Online Form
Small Group Values Document
Great Conversations Document
Leader Resources Page
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
We'd love to hear from you! Click here for our contact form.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay interviews Parker Snider, Brook Hills' new Young Adult Minister. Listen in to learn about Parker's background, hobbies, spiritual story, small group, and a little about young adult ministry. We'll also discuss spiritual growth catalysts and helping people grow during crisis.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Our recent snapshots (feedback from leaders) indicate many groups are struggling with attendance issues. In this episode, Jay and Chris continue to discuss having the right perspective on these issues. They also share some tips and thoughts on ways to strengthen consistency.
Jay referenced the document Small Group Essentials, which mentions faithfulness to attend. One option is to review this document with your group at the start of every ministry year (August).
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Our recent snapshots (feedback from leaders) indicate many groups are struggling with attendance issues. In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss having the right perspective on these issues, and they also share some tips and thoughts on ways to strengthen consistency.
Jay referenced the document Small Group Essentials, which mentions faithfulness to attend. One option is to review this document with your group at the start of every ministry year (August).
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Harry Handlin, one of our Small Group Leaders. We discuss his group, which uses a Bible reading plan together, and Harry then draws his teaching time from the plan. God's word changes lives, so we're interested in teaching plans that encourage people to read the Bible regularly. We included some ideas for groups that may not fully engage in this type of plan.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay reviews a list of 11 things Small Group Leaders should avoid when leading their groups. The list begins with showing up late or unprepared, includes being too guarded, and closes with failing to apply the Scripture to life and to follow up with guests and prayer requests. Listen in to hear the whole list and choose a "sin" to avoid in leading your group.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Christ discuss challenging group members to identify and take some next steps toward growth in Christ. Next steps might be defined as small steps that lead to big change when taken consistently. Jay gets Chris' reaction to a list of ten areas where next steps may be needed. Listen in and get some ideas to help your group members grow spiritually.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris review Equipping Your Group to Go Strong: Tips for Leaders, a document created with lots of practical ideas for your group. As we are in the final few months of 2Strong, look it over and choose some of the tips to use with your group.
You can also reach the document at brookhills.org/leaderresources.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris briefly talk about the Small Group Leader Gathering before listening to the clip of Pastor Matt's talk. Join us for some inspiration if you missed the leader gathering or just want to hear it again.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In today's episode, Jay and Chris talk with Scott and Alison Elliott about being a spiritual influence at work, home, neighborhood, or wherever you are. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences in evangelism.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In today's episode, Jay and Chris talk with Scott and Alison Elliott about being a spiritual influence at work, home, neighborhood, or wherever you are. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences. Hear about a very entertaining weekly event called "Taco Night."
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Jay and Chris take this episode to celebrate our 100th podcast. We talk about favorite memories, fun guests, things we've learned, and more. Thanks to Boyd Powell for our intro.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the talk with James and Stacy Mintz. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences as a spiritual influence at work and in other settings.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with James and Stacy Mintz. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences as a spiritual influence at work and in other settings.
Be sure to check out a Brook Hills document, Equipping Your Small Group in Evangelism.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Jay and Chris talk with Fox from our Global Disciple-making Team. Your Small Group can go on your own mission trip and his team will help facilitate that with our partners overseas. Going global helps make disciples of your group and those you go to serve. Listen to see how it can work for your group.
See Short-Term Mission Trip Info.
See a List of Short-Term trips.
For more info, please email fox@brookhills.org.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Seth Hagan, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the tech industry. We take some time to get to know Seth and talk more in-depth about his personal experiences as a spiritual influence where he works.
Be sure to check out a Brook Hills' document, Equipping Your Small Group in Evangelism.
Also, you are invited to see Seth's YouTube Channel, Theology with Seth.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay continues the discussion with David Graves about the new year's emphasis on Bible reading in 2024. We encourage group leaders to lead their group members to engage in a plan this year. Join in on their discussion and pick up some tips for both your personal reading and for promoting a Bible-reading journey for group members. Due to scheduling conflicts and deadlines, we recorded without Chris this week.
For more information on Bible Reading Plans, please visit brookhills.org/bible. To see Jay's plan for 2024, visit gordonplace.com/bible.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay talks with David Graves about his Bible Reading Journey. That's the name we're giving to the end-of-year emphasis to help group leaders engage their members in a Bible reading plan for 2024. Join in on their discussion and pick up some tips for your personal reading and for promoting a Bible reading journey for group members. Due to scheduling conflicts and deadlines, we recorded without Chris this week. Now we appreciate him more! (Jay had to man the board.)
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the talk with Margie Gunter, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the television industry. We take some time to get to know Margie and talk more in-depth about her personal experiences as a spiritual influence where she works.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Margie Gunter, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the television industry. We take some time to get to know Margie and talk more in-depth about her personal experiences as a spiritual influence where she works.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay presents nine ideas for equipping group members for evangelism. We'll refine the list over the course of the year, but we wanted to move ahead and give you some ideas to consider while it's fresh from the leader gathering. (Update: We recorded this over a month ago. Since then, we've updated the document with ideas. You can see the updated info at the first link below. And know that Chris did get his Snapshot in by the deadline!)
Equipping Your Group to Go Strong (We have something now!)
The Three Circles Gospel Presentation (YouTube)
The Three Circles Outline (PDF)
The Bridge Illustration, Example 1 (YouTube)
The Bridge Illustration, Example 2 (YouTube)
Two Kingdoms Illustration (YouTube)
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, you'll hear the panel discussion from Brook Hills' Small Group Leader Gathering. The meeting focused on the 2Strong Year 2 theme, Going Strong to our Community. At the meeting, Ashley Chesnut interviewed six church members who are doing a great job of going strong to their work community. Join us and be inspired by their stories as we go strong where we live, work, shop, exercise, and play.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode Jay and Chris discuss the 2Strong Emphasis before listening to Pastor Matt's segment from Brook Hills' Fall 2023 Small Group Leader Gathering. Matt shares some books he has been reading that fit well with 2Strong, then gives an overview of 2Strong Year Two. Join us and hear the focus for Year 2.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, we talk with Brandon and Cate Powell about welcoming new people, ministering to group members, and more. Brandon and Cate were featured on our 2023 Small Group Promotion Video.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, we talk with Brandon and Cate Powell about invitations to Small Group and a number of other things. Brandon and Cate were featured on our 2023 Small Group Promotion Video.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ten tips for launching your group year well. They also discuss a couple of good documents to use that first week, Small Group Essentials and Great Conversations. Join us and get some help launching your group well.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay & Chris talk with David McKnight, a Small Group Leader at Brook Hills, about using presentation software (Keynote, Powerpoint, etc.) in group meetings. We'll get to know David and discover how his group is involved in service and we'll also discuss a men's breakout group he has done for a couple of years.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Jay and Chris discuss what to do when you are exhausted and burned out. We've all been there. Listen up and see if any of these tips help you. Some short and long-term solutions are included, as well as some discussion of balancing all of life.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this session, Jay and Chris discuss the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt. We're on Chapter 4, Group Type Trade-Offs. There is some discussion of closed groups, which is good to know, but Brook Hills opts for an open group model to help people remain outwardly oriented.
If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for the bookLeading Small Groups by Chris Surratt.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris review highlights from the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt with one of our own leaders, Jeremy Simpson. This week focuses on Chapter 3: Preparing for Your Small Group. The content here is probably what you should have heard before starting a small group, but there are useful tips scattered throughout.
If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for the bookLeading Small Groups by Chris Surratt.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
**In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss what frustrates them about leading their Small Groups. Listen and see if you resonate with any of these thoughts.
See resources at brookhills.org/leaderresources**.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
**In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss what they love about leading their respective Small Groups. Listen and see if you resonate with any of these thoughts.
See resources at brookhills.org/leaderresources**.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Chris and Jay discuss helping people take "next steps" in their spiritual growth. We want you to be mindful of moving people forward in the faith.Jay's Blog Post on Next Steps 1. Follow Christ and be baptized.
2. Read and study the Bible on a daily basis.
3. Pray consistently and strategically.
4. Become a member of the church.
5. Actively participate in a Small Group.
6. Find someone to mentor you.
7. Talk about your faith with members.
8. Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in your life.
9. Fulfill your roles well (spouse, father, employee, etc.)
10. Serve in the church in some way.
11. Live a generous lifestyle with your time and money.
12. Share Christ with neighbors, co-workers, & family.
13. Disciple someone who is a new believer.
14. Secure a passport.
15. Get a background check to work with minors.
2 Cor 13:11 (NLT)
Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet each other with a sacred kiss. All of God’s people here send you their greetings.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Chris and Jay discuss helping people take "next steps" in their spiritual growth. We want you to be mindful of moving people forward in the faith.Jay's Blog Post on Next Steps 1. Follow Christ and be baptized.
2. Read and study the Bible on a daily basis.
3. Pray consistently and strategically.
4. Become a member of the church.
5. Actively participate in a Small Group.
6. Find someone to mentor you.
7. Talk about your faith with members.
8. Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit in your life.
9. Fulfill your roles well (spouse, father, employee, etc.)
10. Serve in the church in some way.
11. Live a generous lifestyle with your time and money.
12. Share Christ with neighbors, co-workers, & family.
13. Disciple someone who is a new believer.
14. Secure a passport.
15. Get a background check to work with minors.
Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes.
Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills. This episode covers 1) Encouraging the Saints, 2) Responding to Sufferers, and 3) Fighting Sin.
In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills.
In this episode, we continue discussing content from the book "Leading Small Groups" by Chris Surratt. We're scheduling various small group leaders to read a chapter and discuss it with us. This week Dale and Chris continue to talk with Jay and Chris about Chapter 2, Creating Biblical Community.
If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for Leading Small Groups.
In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills.
In this episode, Jay and Chris chat with Chris Robbins and Dale Kendrick. We'll get to know them a little better and find out what makes their group tick.
On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Dave Halperin, leader of a multi-gen, off-campus Small Group. We get to know Dave and then ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led Navy pilot talk, and also group multiplication, breakout groups, and handling prayer in groups.
In this episode, we start something brand new--reviewing the book "Leading Small Groups" by Chris Surratt. We're scheduling various small group leaders to read a chapter and discuss it with us. This week includes the book introduction and Chapter 1: "What is a Small Group Leader." It's a very encouraging start with good news for every leader.
If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for Leading Small Groups.
On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Todd Norton, leader of an off-campus Small Group. We get to know Todd and then ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led to various facets of group life and how Todd accomplishes those.
Tonight, Jay & Chris talk to Bill & Carol Brown about ministry to group members facing illness themselves or death in their family. We cover meals, visits, travel expectations for funerals, and do's and don'ts.
In this episode, Zac Condie is back to discuss Elder shepherding with Jay & Chris. They review the Shepherding Best Practices found at brookhills.org/elderwork and share some practical tips and stories. Zac is now Jay's Elder after Jay rotated off the Elder Council at Brook Hills.
On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Zac Condie, leader of an off-campus BH Small Group and also one of our Elders. We ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led to curriculum, childcare, men's and women's breakout groups, and more.
On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with our good friend, Jeff Kunard, one of our Elders at Brook Hills. Jeff is an experienced Small Group leader and has recently started a new group. Hear his spiritual story and a conversation about transparency, testimonies, and community.
Today, Jay and Chris talk about Slovenia and also discuss how to share differing length versions of your faith story. For much of the podcast, Jay shares his story and his "active testimony". Listen to learn what that's all about.
Today, we’re talking about how to keep your group healthy enough to survive. You’ll hear some about the importance of critical mass and changes that inevitably come to your group.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about a few random items from the previous day's Small Group Leader Gathering at Brook Hills. The discussion leads to how we can accomplish those things in groups.
Today, Jay and Christ talk about launching the new year strong. You’ll hear tips and reminders about important things to do as your group starts the year.
In this episode, Jay and Chris explore the terms open and closed groups and why our church has chosen a different vernacular, listed and unlisted groups. There are more factors than meet the eye, and we talk about how important it is to keep your group open at all times, even when it may be unlisted "for a good reason and for only a season." (Episode: 60)
In this episode, Jay and Chris review a document Jay created to guide groups in having great conversations. It is a document for group members that you may want to review with them once a year. There are tips that encourage some members to speak less and some to speak more, and other tips on listening and avoiding rabbit trails. (Episode 59)
Copy: http://www.brookhills.org/files/uploads/SmallGroups_GreatDiscussions2019.pdf
In this episode, Jay and Chris review a document Jay created to guide groups in having great conversations. It is a document for group members that you may want to review with them once a year. There are tips that encourage some members to speak less and some to speak more, and other tips on listening and avoiding rabbit trails. (Episode 58)
See the document: http://www.brookhills.org/files/uploads/SmallGroups_GreatDiscussions2019.pdf
In this episode, Jay reviews some recent Leader Tips--a paragraph-length tip that is included in the Small Group News each week. After covering an unrecorded gem from Elisabeth Chramer and celebrating 5,000 downloads, Jay and Chris discuss evaluating overall progress in disciple-making and involving your group in hospitality. (Episode 57)
In this episode, Jay and Chris chat with Elisabeth Chramer who leads a Small Group for Young Women. She shares how they recently asked what questions group member wanted to ask, talked about having. a staff member visit the group, and discusses "tiny groups", their term for break-out groups. (Episode 56)
In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the conversation about welcoming people into your group with Andy Noel. Andy has lots of ministry experience but is currently in Jay's group. You'll hear some "fails" they've experienced as well as some ways to have an action plan for guests.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about welcoming people into your group with Andy Noel. Andy has lots of ministry experience but is currently in Jay's group. You'll hear some "fails" they've experienced as well as some ways to have an action plan for guests.
We cover 8 different curriculum options for Small Groups, but also point out that disciple-making is much more than just teaching and learning. Jay shares the DREAM of discipleship: five key components necessary for disciple-making. We also review the pros and cons of each curriculum type and discuss ways to make it better should you choose that option.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about multiplying your Small Group. You'll hear some important discussion points regarding HOW to multiply your group. Episode 51 ended up covering the WHY. They also included some thoughts and cautions for ministry leaders.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about multiplying your Small Group. You'll hear some important discussion points about the WHY. The following episode will cover HOW to multiply your group. Don't miss the book recommendation for church ministry leaders.
In this episode, Jay and Chris interview John Butterfield, Brook Hills' Pastor of Local Disciple-making. John recently taught a class by this name at Brook Hills, and we thought it would be great to get a quick overview of this content out to all of you. Some highlights include a look at bad Bible study habits, six steps to Bible study, and more. Join us!
In this episode, Jay and Chris interview John Butterfield, Brook Hills' Pastor of Local Disciple-making. John recently taught a class by this name at Brook Hills, and we thought it would be great to get a quick overview of this content out to all of you. Some highlights include a look at bad Bible study habits, six steps to Bible study, and more. Join us!
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Dennis Blythe, Brook Hills’ Executive Pastor, about Elders and Small Group Leaders. Elders often come from the ranks of our Small Group Leaders, so we thought it would be helpful to dig into the role, biblical qualifications, and process of becoming an Elder at Brook Hills. We'll also spend a little time talking about how our Elders support Small Groups. We hope this podcast will help our faith family better understand the role of Elder. (Season 2, Episode 48)
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about new year's resolutions and annual goals for Small Groups. They dive into a number of categories, encouraging you as Small Group leaders to consider goals in each category for leading your group this year.
On this episode of the Great Groups podcast, Jay's wife Liz & Chris's wife Wendy make a special visit and spend time with us. Listen in as they share a few funny stories and talk a bit of "inside baseball".
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Josh Lewis & Nathan Jackson who are both Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills. Josh, Chris & Nathan all represent parts of a "Small Group Family Tree" where multiplication has flourished not just because of effective leadership, but through a magnitude of God's grace & mercy. (#45)
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Chip Bugnar, the Global Pastor here at Brook Hills ,about the Desert City Initiative, a multi-year strategy to impact this unnamed hub city. If you're a Brook Hills person, consider how you can be involved. If not, as you listen, consider getting your group involved locally or globally. Short-term trips are one of the top disciple-making catalysts. (#44)
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about the importance of sharing some of the work of your Small Group. Doing so helps others grow, gives them ownership in the group, and allows you to give more attention to your leadership role. (#43)
In this episode, Jay & Chris continue a discussion of evangelism with Jeremy Simpson, a topic that Jeremy is very passionate about. Jay had engaged with Jeremy in a random discussion and decided to bring Jeremy in to record it for your benefit as well. Our hope is that God will use this to give you some ideas about reaching your neighbor, co-worker, or friend. (#42)
In this episode, Jay and Chris have a discussion with Jeremy Simpson about evangelism, a topic that Jeremy is very passionate about. Jay had engaged with Jeremy in a random discussion and decided to bring Jeremy in to record it for your benefit as well. Our hope is that God will use this to give you some ideas about reaching your neighbor, co-worker, or friend. (#43, Season 2, Episode 18)
This week, Jay and Chris walk through Small Group Essentials, a document designed to help create a healthy group environment through which people grow in their relationships with one another and with Christ. Because these are things for everyone in the group, the start of the year is a great time to review Small Group Essentials with your group. They include items like a commitment to love, attendance, spiritual health, prayer, ministry, confidentiality, authenticity, multiplication, and unity.
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss eight things to consider as you prepare for leading your group to have a great year. Examples from the list are 1) having a plan for welcoming new people into the group and 2) making contacts with all your members prior to your first meeting of the year. (#41: Season 2, Episode 16)
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss apps that they have used to strengthen their spiritual disciplines and multiply their time. As a leader, being a mature and maturing disciple is so important in disciple-making. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ." Why not learn and use technology to help! (Episode 40, Season 2, Episode 15)
In this episode, Jay and Chris welcome Brian Munnings and Holly Deemer to discuss Brook Hills' Caring Well Emphasis. Pastor Matt Mason focused on this in the June 6 Worship Gatherings. Caring Well is an emphasis to help our church become informed about abuse in order to prevent abuse, respond appropriately to abuse, and to build healthy environments and families. Brian serves as the Biblical Counselor at Brook Hills and Holly is a Clinical Psychologist at Grayson and Associates. (#39 - Season 2, Episode 14).
In this episode, Jay and Chris welcome Brian Munnings and Holly Deemer to discuss Brook Hills' Caring Well Emphasis. Pastor Matt Mason will focus on this in the June 6 Worship Gatherings. Caring Well is an emphasis to help our church become informed about abuse in order to prevent abuse, respond appropriately to abuse, and to build healthy environments and families. Brian serves as the Biblical Counselor at Brook Hills and Holly is a Clinical Psychologist at Grayson and Associates. (#38 - Season 2, Episode 13).
In this episode, Jay & Chris overview the pros and cons of each type of curriculum: Sermon-based Guides, Book of the Bible Study, Topical Studies, Reading Plan Study, Quarterlies, & Combination Plans. (#38 - Season 2, Episode 12)
In this episode, Jay & Chris begin a discussion of curriculum, but setting it up with a discussion of curriculum mapping, teaching style, getting people to talk, and much more. Week 2 of this two part series will give the pros and cons of each type of curriculum: Sermon-based Guides, Book of the Bible Study, Topical Studies, Reading Plan Study, Quarterlies, & Combination Plans. (#37 - Season 2, Episode 11)
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss Ten Ways to be a Great Group member. Special color commentary guest is Alan Chappell, one of our Small Group Leaders and an Elder at BH. We will learn ways to encourage our members to be ALL IN with their Small Groups. (Part 2, Episode 34)
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss Ten Ways to be a Great Group member. Special color commentary guest is Alan Chappell, one of our Small Group Leaders and an Elder at BH. We will learn ways to encourage our members to be ALL IN with their Small Groups. (Part 1 of 2, Episode 33)
(Part 2) In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss preschool ministry with special guest, Allison Foster, who serves as the Preschool Minister at Brook Hills. Allison is also part of an adult Small Group at Brook Hills. We will learn ways preschool and adult ministry can connect to strengthen each other as we make disciples of all ages.
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss preschool ministry with special guest, Allison Foster, who serves as the Preschool Minister at Brook Hills. Allison is also part of an adult Small Group at Brook Hills. We will learn ways preschool and adult ministry can connect to strengthen each other as we make disciples of all ages.
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ways we can "see" people, letting them know that they matter to us and they matter to God. Covid has been rough on us individually and on our Small Groups. Let's make sure we do things to let people know we see them.
In this episode, Chris listens and nods as Jay discusses the dangers of assuming people know Jesus just because they seek to be involved in a group. You'll hear a couple of stories and also learn some great ideas to keep the gospel and evangelism equipping at the center of your group.
In this episode, Jay and Nate talk with repeat guest, Nate Farrow. Nate has a new, expanded role at Brook Hills that includes Pastoral Care and Young Adults. You don't want to miss Nate's testimony about how God used Auburn football, injury, and a faithful brother to redirect Nate's heart and life-priorities.
What do you do when your group faces rapid growth? In this episode, Jay helps Chris think through some questions he has about his group growing rapidly. Don't we all wish we had that problem? We'll discuss listed and unlisted groups, raising up leaders, preparing a group for multiplication, and ways to make the group feel small.
In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Dawn Wingard, who leads a Small Group with her husband, Jared. Dawn discusses one of her own times of crisis and how she dealt with being in need while also leading. Jay and Chris add some tips as well.
Visit us online at GreatGroups.org.
In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss the importance of Bible engagement in the spiritual growth of every believer. You'll also hear some tips and learn what we are doing individually. The bottom line is this--to make disciples, we need to encourage and equip our small group members to develop consistent time in the Word!
In this episode, Jay and Chris continue a dialogue with Ashley Chesnut, Associate Singles 20s/30s Minister at Brook Hills. Part 2 digs deeper into context and knowing your audience. Go back and catch Part 1 to learn more about choosing a study, beginning with the end in mind, your personal study, commentaries and resources, context, and using good questions.
In this episode, Jay and Chris dialogue with Ashley Chesnut, Associate Singles 20s/30s Minister at Brook Hills. Topics include choosing a study, beginning with the end in mind, your personal study, commentaries and resources, context, and using good questions.
In this episode, Jay & Chris talk with Dale Kendrick & Chris Robbins, co-leaders along with their wives, Courtney & Erin, of a Wednesday night group at Brook Hills. The group does some things really well and we wanted you to hear about it. Also, Dale is a really encouraging guy, quick to tell a brother, "I love you." We wanted to dig into that a little also.
In this episode, Jay & Chris celebrate the 20th episode and talk about whatever is on their minds. It’s a ritual for every 10th episode. Listen in as they discuss how mature God wants us to be, proper pronunciation of foreign cities, the election, recording a podcast while the lights go out, and many, many other random thoughts (not necessarily in that order).
We want to say "thank you" to our leaders through our special guest, Ken Braddy. Be encouraged by the fact that your work leading a group changes lives not only now, but potentially for generations.
Ken is the Director of Sunday School ministries for Lifeway Christian Resources and also manages the training for Adult Study Groups & Church Leadership. Ken is also an author and hosts a podcast as well. His podcast is titled "The Sunday School Guy" and his blog is kenbraddy.com.
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to issue specific growth challenges to your group based on the biblical content you cover & actually following up a week later. Don't miss out on this key ingredient to transformative lives!
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to share your spiritual story (testimony) in a short(er) amount of time. Listen in as Chris shares his abridged story and reduces it from 8 to 10 minutes down to 20 seconds.
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to have a great group meeting on limited time. Our schedule at Brook Hills is changing so that we have to do more with less, but at time all Small Groups face time crunches due to late arrivals, long prayer requests, or virtual tech issues. Here are some tips on how to make the most of limited time.
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss how to make hybrid meetings work. As groups start meeting live again, many are not ready to come back. We need to do a little extra work to keep everyone connected to the group. Here’s how.
(Part 2) In this episode, Jay & Chris continue to discuss new leader tips with Nate Farrow, Young Singles Minister at The Church at Brook Hills. This session should be good for new and old leaders alike. You may have missed one of these early as a group leadership, so catch them all now.
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss new leader tips with Nate Farrow, Young Singles Minister at The Church at Brook Hills. This session should be good for new and old leaders alike. You may have missed one of these early as a group leadership, so catch them all now.
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss major categories of leadership in small groups and invite you to evaluate your own effectiveness in these areas. We cover pillars 6 through 10 on this episode, for pillars 1 through 5, check out Ten Pillars of Small Groups Ministry (Part 1)!
In this episode, Jay & Chris discuss major categories of leadership in small groups and invite you to evaluate your own effectiveness in these areas...The first 5 are discussed here, 6 through 10 are in Part 2.
In this episode, Jay & Chris celebrate the tenth episode, and just share some things on their hearts. The discussion includes what we've learned podcasting, happenings in our lives, favorite fans, t-shirts, reviews of first 10 episodes, stats, what's happening at Brook Hills, and finally, appreciating you for leading a group.
In this episode, Jay & Chris sit down for a discussion with Michael Mickens, an African-American man who serves as an Elder at The Church at Brook Hills. Michael is a former adult small group leader. We discuss where we go from here and how your small group can be a part of the solution. Here's a hint: it involves loving one another.
In this episode, Jay & Chris continue an interview with Jim and Betty Warren. In this part, we discuss how the Warrens have started 17 groups in 14 years at Brook Hills. One secret ingredient is love.
If you like what you hear, please subscribe! If you really like what you hear, please rate us!
To learn more about the Great Groups podcast, please visit us at greatgroups.org!
In this episode, Jay & Chris interview Jim and Betty Warren who create a great environment for disciple-making with love, transparency, mission, and a reliance on God’s word. What makes this episode fun is that Jay secretly emailed the group for their thoughts about their small group and of Jim and Betty before the podcast.
In this episode, Jay & Chris walk through the many challenges of bringing groups back together again! Listen in as we discuss the different responses, unique levels of readiness and overall general concerns involved with the return to in-person meetings.
Also - We will touch on a unique topic - ZOOM FATIGUE! (Yes, it's a real thing and you may be totally unaware of it affecting YOU!)
This week, Jay and Chris resume and conclude a conversation with Nathan and Wendi* who are Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills. Jay shares a passion for discipleship with them, partly because overseas discipleship strategies and experiences strongly influenced all three. On the podcast, we want to look at Biblical principles used overseas and ask, "Why not here?"
Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. The podcast is hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, where Chris is a small group leader. We want to inspire you to make your group great.
Please subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Visit us at greatgroups.org for additional resources, bios and pictures, and to sign up for our email list.
*Last name intentionally withheld.
This week, we talk with Nathan and Wendi who are Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills. Jay shares a passion for discipleship with them, partly because overseas discipleship strategies and experiences strongly influenced all three. On the podcast, we want to look at Biblical principles used there and ask, "Why not here?"
Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. The podcast is hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, where Chris is a small group leader. We want to inspire you to make your group great.
Please subscribe on your favorite podcast app. Visit us at greatgroups.org for additional resources, bios and pictures, and to sign up for our email list.
In this episode, Jay and Chris share some wacky things that have happened in their online group experiences. But we don't just laugh at what happened, we give you solutions. Of course, a lot of the solutions have to do with the mute button.
The funny video we reference is on the front page of our site, greatgroups.org. And you can also grad a pdf version with all these tips under the resource link at the website.
The goal of Great Groups is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. The podcast is hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. Both of us want to inspire you to make your group great!
Subscribe to our podcast so that you don't miss any upcoming episodes. Be sure to visit us at greatgroups.org. We'd love to hear from you through our contact form.
For those who are interested, we take this episode to introduce ourselves and to answer the question, "Why do a podcast for Small Group Leaders?"
Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. Hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. Both of us want to inspire you to make your group great!
This is our "Friends & Family" episode where we test the podcasting waters for the very first time!
Visit us at greatgroups.org, and if you like what you hear, be sure to subscribe!
SHOW NOTES:
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Why are we here? 1:13
Chris’s Bio 4:08
Jay’s Bio 7:14
Sharing Fears 9:50
Desired Format 12:25
Sharing More Fears 14:46
Closing 23:39
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In this episode, we cover the many resources available for connecting with your group online & remotely. We'll also walk through a few tips & helpful suggestions, as well as discuss our roadmap for future episodes.
Welcome to the Great Groups Podcast! Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. Hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. We want to inspire you to make your group great.
Please subscribe! If you REALLY like what you hear, visit us @ greatgroups.org and please leave feedback!
SHOW NOTES:
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Opening 0:36
Housekeeping 3:24
When you can’t meet 4:44
Zoom Security Update 6:50
Resource Overview 7:50
Suggestions 11:26
Services Available 17:15
Zoom 17:18
Jitsi 18:39
Security Clarification 21.23
Facetime 22:36
GoToMeeting, etc. 23:23
Try it first! 23:54
Audio-Only 24:09
Next Episode, Roadmap 26:04
Closing 27:00
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The Coronavirus Pandemic has forced us all to think differently about how we do small groups. What are the immediate needs during this crisis? We'll take a look at some priorities for leading through this pandemic.
Welcome to the Great Groups Podcast! Our goal is to equip Small Group Leaders at Brook Hills and beyond to make disciples effectively. Hosted by Jay Gordon, with co-host Chris Amaro. Jay leads the Small Groups Ministry at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama where Chris is a small group leader. Both of us want to inspire you to make your group great!
This is our COVID-19 episode where we walk through what a challenging time this has become, especially for small group leaders. We cover 4 areas of ministry: Care, Connection, Challenge & Content. Be sure to visit us at greatgroups.org, and if you like what you hear, please subscribe!
SHOW NOTES:
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Opening 0:34
Housekeeping 1:02
Life Changes 1:54
The Basis: Love 5:08
What to Focus On 7:19
Care 7:56
Connect 8:37
Challenge 13:01
Content 15:37
Larger Groups? 18:41
Reduction in Content? 20:21
Overemphasize Bible 23:30
Disciple at home 24:41
Closing 25:45
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