Small
The group should consist of 3–6 members. If it grows too large, break into smaller groups and encourage anyone wanting to join to start a new one.
After the Weekend
Reunion Groups
We are called to the Great Banquet to make reunion groups. The weekend exists so there may be people to build them — not the other way around.
As Eduardo Bonin, one of the founders of the Cursillo movement, said: "We must bear in mind that reunion groups are not held so that there may be people attend weekends, but the weekend is held so that there may be people to make reunion groups."
The reunion group is an aid to keep our Christian lives and our life in Christ conscious, growing, and more effective. Christ said, "Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I." Reunion groups are something done for our Lord's sake. We should take them seriously and prayerfully, serving and dedicating ourselves to Christ so we may know, love, and serve Him better.
Guidelines
Nine Marks of an Effective Group
Serious
Deal with things that are significant about your service to our Lord. Use the reunion group order card as a guide for discussion, rotating through its sections.
Sincere
Members must be open and honest, even when that's uncomfortable. Be aware that Christ is working in the world through you.
Discreet
What is said at group, stays at group — and is only repeated with permission.
Regular
Be on time. Be the one the group depends on to be present. Meet weekly, or at least every other week — inconsistent attendance keeps a group from developing.
Short
Set a prearranged time limit and stick to it. About one hour, or up to an hour and a half, is right.
Change Leadership
No one individual should always be responsible for initiating discussion. Leadership responsibility is shared.
Have Fun
Plan events beyond the weekly meeting. Develop friendships in the group — serve in mission work, go to dinner, help at Banquet events.
Review
Occasionally review the group's success. How can we improve? How can we better serve our Lord?
Thanks to the Heartland Great Banquet for wording ideas used on this page.
Looking for a Group?
Reach out and a Lay Director can help connect you with a reunion group near you.