Take a Look at Your Large Group

As you begin planning for your large group meetings, take time to review your current large group meetings. Each person involved with planning or leading large group meetings should read the list below and check all items that describe your group. You’ll find that different people will see what’s happening differently and that you will want to compare your responses.

BEFORE THE MEETING:

___ There is a plan for the term for all large group meetings

___ Visuals are prepared before the meeting

___ The meetings are prayed for regularly

___ Musicians are prepared (guitars tuned, songs rehearsed)

___ Speaker is briefed on expectations, goals, time limits

___ Facilities are ready, set up on time

DURING THE MEETING:

___ Clear opening statement as to the purpose of the meeting

___ Meeting starts on time

___ There is a sense of excitement and expectation

___ Meeting format shows diversity and creativity

___ Meeting tone is enthusiastic and upbeat

___ Meeting has adequate amount of group participation

___ Meetings are not too formal, or stiff

___ Meetings are not too informal, or chaotic

___ There is a unifying theme throughout the meeting

___ The meeting is Christ-centered

___ Leader is directive without being overbearing

___ Leader communicates warmth, welcoming tone, expectations

___ Leader is careful not to use jargon or “in jokes”

___ Leader is confident of what comes next and smoothly moves group

___ Speaker is adequately introduced

___ Teaching is generally relevant (meeting people where they are)

___ Teaching is generally helpful (not too simple or advanced)

___ Singing is usually lively and spirited

___ Words for songs clearly displayed or handed out

___ Announcements are brief, interesting, and necessary

___ Meeting ends on time

___ Regularly attending members are welcoming to newcomers

___ There is sensitivity to visitors

AFTER THE MEETING:

___ Speakers are thanked verbally and in writing

___ Visitors are followed-up

___ Many people who visit return

___ Prayers for meetings include thanksgiving for God’s answers

___ Meeting planners/leaders review meetings and make improvements

How is your large group doing? What areas would you like to improve? Keep those areas that need improvement in mind as you plan meetings.