SGN Update #3 & 10 Things That Could Be A Part Of Your Group Guidelines

Join hosts Steve Gladen and Derek Olson for a lively and insightful episode packed with updates from the Small Group Network and a practical deep dive into crafting effective small group guidelines. Steve shares the latest on SGN’s mission, new initiatives, and the ongoing effort to end loneliness among pastors and church members. Then, the duo unpacks 10 essential elements you can include in your group’s guidelines, drawing from decades of small group ministry experience. Whether you’re launching a new group or looking to strengthen an existing one, this episode is full of wisdom, humor, and actionable tips.

Chapters & Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction & Banter
  • Derek and Steve kick off with some friendly sports rivalry, coffee cup confessions, and updates on Steve’s “office on wheels.”
• [04:18] SGN Update: New Initiatives & State Reps
  • Steve shares exciting news about SGN’s 501(c)(3) status, upcoming Bible engagement resources, and the push to recruit state representatives to combat loneliness and resource churches nationwide.
• [09:35] How to Get Involved
  • Learn how you can become a state rep, make an impact, and connect with Steve directly.
• [10:55] Why Group Guidelines Matter
  • The hosts explain the importance of group covenants/guidelines and how they set expectations for healthy, thriving small groups.
• [12:17] 10 Things That Could Be Part of Your Group Guidelines
  1. Clear Purpose – Define your group’s mission and goals.
  2. Group Attendance – Commit to regular, intentional meetings.
  3. Safe Environment – Foster a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing.
  4. Confidentiality – Build trust by keeping group discussions private (with legal exceptions).
  5. Conflict Resolution – Handle disagreements biblically and directly.
  6. Spiritual Health – Encourage accountability and growth in faith.
  7. Limit Our Freedom – Be sensitive to others’ backgrounds and struggles.
  8. Welcome Newcomers – Keep your group open and inviting.
  9. Building Relationships – Go deeper through authentic community and subgrouping.
  10. Teamwork – Involve everyone in the group’s life and mission.
• [32:56] Final Thoughts & Encouragement
  • Steve and Derek wrap up with practical advice for customizing your group guidelines and a reminder to revisit them regularly.
• [37:01] How to Become a State Leader
  • Steve outlines the proactive and reactive roles of a state leader and invites passionate listeners to join the mission.
• [37:01] Closing & Call to Action
  • Don’t forget to subscribe and visit smallgroupnetwork.com for more resources, support, and opportunities to connect.

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Explore more resources and join the community at https://smallgroupnetwork.com!

Five Essential Tips for Setting Up Strong Small Groups This Fall with Steve Gladen

In this engaging episode of SG Squared, Derek hosts Steve Gladen, a seasoned small group ministry leader with over 25 years of experience, to share five essential tips for setting up strong small groups this fall. Steve makes two major announcements, discussing his departure from Saddleback Church and future plans to focus on the global church and develop the Small Group Network. The five tips covered include clarifying the 'why,' checking in with processes and people, listening well, saying thank you, and modeling openness. By implementing these strategies, leaders can bolster their small group ministries and impact discipleship effectively. Don't miss out on these practical insights to help you prepare for the upcoming fall season and beyond.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction
01:14 Big Announcements from Steve Gladen
02:51 Transitioning to Global Church Work
08:11 Five Tips for Strong Small Groups This Fall
09:23 Tip 1: Clarify the Why
12:08 Tip 2: Check In
15:53 Tip 3: Listen Well
19:37 Tip 4: Say Thank You
23:02 Tip 5: Model Openness
27:07 Final Thoughts and Farewell

The Next Chapter for Small Group Network: A Vision of Connection and Impact

Learn more at https://smallgroupnetwork.com

In this special edition of SG Squared, Steve Gladen passionately shares his personal journey and the transformative power of small groups, beginning with his family's conversion story. Following his departure from Saddleback Church, Steve announces his full-time commitment to the Small Group Network. He outlines three main focuses for the future: eradicating loneliness through better community connection, enhancing Bible engagement within small groups, and making significant impacts on various community units including families, local churches, and the global church. Steve calls for support through donations, becoming a 'Friend of the Small Group Network,' and helping churches access 'All Access' resources, underlining the initiative's potential to create profound change.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Update
00:32 The Power of Small Groups: A Personal Story
01:34 The Birth and Growth of the Small Group Network
02:11 A New Chapter: Full-Time Commitment to the Network
02:39 Future Vision: Core Fundamentals and New Initiatives
03:07 Eradicating Loneliness: A Key Focus
04:07 Strategic Resourcing: Enhancing Bible Engagement
05:29 Impacting Communities: Four Key Areas
05:51 How You Can Support the Small Group Network
08:22 Conclusion and Call to Action