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In my new role of overseeing the Life Group Ministry at Church of the Redeemer I am rereading a book that I read several years ago, “Creating Community” by Andy Stanley and Bill Willits. There is a lot to share from this book, but one thing I found valuable for any organization was the clarification between a community and a committee. I’ve paraphrased this principle below.

You can choose to do ministry (work, life) in the context of relationship in communities, or on committees.  The purpose of a committee is to accomplish a task. Tasks are fine because we need to get a lot done, but it is incomplete. It is important to operate in a relational way that values people as much as their contributions. The goal is for people to be highly successful in their roles, yet experience a level of community. 

I highly recommend this book not only for those involved in small groups, but for any church leader that wants to create a relational culture.

Yesterday my pastor, Herbert Cooper, shared 10 reasons why he is a big believer in small groups. Check out a few below and then see all 10 on his blog at herbertcooper.com.

1. People can pray and be prayed for.
2. People can care for one another.
3. People can hold each other accountable.

P.S. My pastor is now on twitter. Follow him @herbertcooper.