How does our theology provide support and structure for small group ministry? Building on episode 1 (Biblical basis for small groups), Scott and Steve take a deep dive into how Wesleyan theology can give guidance to small group ministries. Steve also surveys the early Wesleyan methodology for disciple making.

The Small Groups in the Wesleyan Way podcast is where we are all about going beyond curriculum, beyond programs, beyond best practices to recover and learn from our Wesleyan roots and to explore the foundations for small groups that produce disciples of Jesus Christ who in turn disciple others. 

Scott Hughes is the Director of Adult Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries. Steve Manskar is Director of Wesleyan Leadership and Covenant Discipleship for Discipleship Ministries.

Episode 4: Theological Basis for Small Groups

An agency of The United Methodist Church, Discipleship Ministries helps local church, district, and conference leaders fulfill the shared dream of making world-changing disciples.

The agency connects leaders with needed resourcing, training, consulting, and networking that support spiritual formation, new church development, revitalization of local churches, and materials for use in Central Conferences. Discipleship Ministries has embarked upon an integrated, strategic direction that serves the church with continuity, based upon basic values and mission.

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When Trinity United Methodist Church in Kansas City needed to raise $50,000 for much-needed repairs to their historic building, the congregation of 75 found themselves facing a big challenge. The Rev. Tex Sample shares with Ken Sloane the journey of Trinity's capital campaign.

Interview with the Rev. Tex Sample

In this session, we hear from Rachel Gilmore, Director of Recruiting, Assessing, and Training for Community Engagement and Church Planting at Discipleship Ministries. Rachel, also a former church planter, will cover a wide range of topics including in-home versus at-church small groups, the connection between worship and small groups, and the various roles within small groups. To participate in the online course for free, visit smallgroups.umcdiscipleship.org.

How to Start Small Groups: Interview with Rachel Gilmore

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

How to Start Small Groups: Interview with Motoe Yamada Foor

People inside and outside of our churches are hungering for places that feel smaller and offer welcome, connection, and belonging. Small groups offer that and so much more. In this session, Mark Youngman and Joy Dodge of Providence United Methodist Church help us explore the big “why” of small group ministry. To participate in the online course for free, visit http://smallgroups.umcdiscipleship.org.

How to Start Small Groups: Interview with Mark Youngman and Joy Dodge

In this session, we will hear from Pastor Brad Kalajainen, the author of "How to Start Small Groups" which serves as our main text for this course. Kalajainen highlights the role of small groups in pastoral care and growing disciples and leaders within the church. To participate in the online course for free, visit http://smallgroups.umcdiscipleship.org.

Episode 4: Theological Basis for Small Groups

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