04.14.10
Multi-Generational Small Groups: Pros, Cons, and Hurdles to Overcome II
Yesterday’s blog post started a conversation about multi-generational small groups. If you had a chance to read it you saw some of my thoughts on “classes” and “multi-generational groups.” I thought you might help me process pros and cons.
If you’ve got time, give these a read and comment. I’d be grateful.
Pros of Multi-Generational Groups:
· Modeling (children watching parents do biblical community learn to do so themselves)
· Synergistic/Organic Mentoring (spiritual gifts and experiences of those in the group at work)
· Single parents can connect children to role models (of the opposite gender)
· Stage-up lifestyle learning (preschooler respects the grade schooler, grade schooler respects the pre-teen, the pre-teen respects the teenager, etc…)
· Childcare is no longer an issue
· Parents model communal spiritual disciplines for their children (prayer, studying the Bible, grieving, celebrations, partaking of the Lord’s supper, etc…)
· The nurturing of spiritual gifts at an early age
· During the rebellious stages of life teens will seek out an adult they believe in and trust
Cons/Hurdles of Multi-Generational Groups:
· Language barriers
· Adults don’t believe they can speak openly
· Moms (especially young) need a time to escape parenting responsibilities
· Meetings can be chaotic
· Discussions must be dumbed down
· Teens oftentimes feel very uncomfortable, especially in the rebellious stages
We have a few small groups that include their teens in the weekly gatherings. I think the only significant downside is that the conversation needs to steer clear of some topics. Other than that, the intergenerational approach to ministry seems timely, biblical and necessary!
Thanks for the thoughts to consider!
Tom Houser