12-Week Digital Small Group Leadership Training Program
This 12-week training program is designed to equip digital small group leaders for Living Manna Online Digital Church with the biblical, technical, and relational skills they need to launch, nurture, and eventually multiply their own groups. The program provides ample time to learn, practice, and refine these skills while building a community of practice among emerging leaders.
IM
by Ivor Myers
Rationale for a 12-Week Program
1
A 12-week training program allows sufficient time to cover biblical, technical, and relational dimensions in depth, while giving leaders a chance to practice, receive feedback, and build confidence before launching their own digital small groups.
2
This duration is long enough to foster genuine transformation and a community of leaders, yet concise enough to maintain momentum and urgency.
Week 1: Orientation & Vision Casting
1
Objectives:
Introduce the training program, its goals, and expectations
Establish a shared vision rooted in Living Manna's mission and the biblical mandate for discipleship
Week 1: Content
1
Program Overview:
Walk through the 12-week structure, milestones, and desired outcomes.
2
Vision & Mission:
Presentation on Living Manna Online Digital Church's vision, citing Hebrews 10:24-25 and Matthew 28:18-20.
3
Biblical Foundations:
Briefly discuss the importance of community and discipleship in the early church.
Week 1: Activities
1
Icebreaker Session
Each participant shares their name, background, and one personal goal for leading a digital small group.
2
Vision Workshop
In small breakout groups, participants craft a personal vision statement. Then, reconvene to share insights and create a collective "vision board" (using an online collaboration tool like Miro or Google Jamboard).
3
Group Covenant Discussion
Introduce the idea of a group covenant and ask participants to brainstorm key elements they believe are essential.
Week 2: Biblical Foundations for Small Group Ministry
1
Objectives:
Understand the biblical models for community, discipleship, and multiplication
Ground digital group leadership in scriptural principles
Week 2: Content
1
Scripture Study:
In-depth look at Acts 2:42-47 and 2 Timothy 2:2 to illustrate early church practices and leader development.
2
Discussion Points:
How these passages inform modern digital small group practices and multiplication.
Week 2: Activities
1
Breakout Bible Study
Divide participants into small groups. Each group studies a key passage (e.g., Acts 2 or 2 Timothy 2:2) using guided questions:
What does this passage teach about community?
How can we model discipleship and multiplication digitally?
2
Group Report
Each breakout group presents their findings, followed by a full-group discussion to synthesize insights.
Identify the core qualities of effective digital small group leaders
Develop personal spiritual disciplines that underpin servant leadership
Week 3: Content
Leadership Characteristics
Teach on humility, accountability, empathy, and the willingness to serve.
Spiritual Disciplines
Discuss prayer, Bible study, fasting, and reflection as tools for personal growth.
Week 3: Activities
1
Self-Assessment
Provide a leadership inventory questionnaire so participants can reflect on their strengths and growth areas.
2
Journaling Exercise
Ask each leader to write a brief reflection on a biblical leader they admire and how that example shapes their leadership style.
3
Case Study Discussion
Present a scenario of a biblical leader (e.g., Paul's mentorship of Timothy) and facilitate a discussion on lessons applicable to digital ministry.
Week 4: Digital Technology & Platform Proficiency
1
Objectives:
Build competence in using digital tools essential for online small groups
Learn best practices for a smooth, engaging virtual meeting experience
Week 4: Content
1
Tool Overview:
Live demonstration of platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or the church's dedicated app.
2
Technical Guidelines:
Cover features such as breakout rooms, screen sharing, recording, and managing chat functions.
3
Troubleshooting:
Common technical challenges and quick fixes.
Week 4: Activities
1
Hands-On Workshop
Participants join a practice Zoom meeting where they experiment with breakout rooms, muting/unmuting, screen sharing, and using virtual backgrounds.
2
Tech Scavenger Hunt
A guided activity where leaders must find and use specific functions on the platform (e.g., change video layout, record a short clip).
3
Q&A Session
A live troubleshooting round where participants ask about technical issues they've experienced or foresee.
Week 5: Effective Online Facilitation & Communication
1
Objectives:
Master techniques for facilitating engaging and interactive online discussions
Establish digital etiquette and clear communication guidelines for group sessions
Week 5: Content
1
Facilitation Techniques:
Use of icebreakers, open-ended questions, and storytelling to encourage participation.
2
Communication Best Practices:
Tips for clear, concise messaging, active listening, and managing digital interactions.
3
Establishing Norms:
How to set and reinforce a digital group covenant that includes confidentiality and respectful dialogue.
Week 5: Activities
1
Role-Playing
In breakout groups, practice leading a mini session that includes an icebreaker and a guided discussion segment. Rotate roles among facilitator and participants.
2
Feedback Rounds
After each role-play, peers provide constructive feedback focusing on clarity, engagement, and digital presence.
3
Mock Covenant Creation
Participants collaboratively draft a sample digital group covenant, then compare with best practices.
Week 6: Managing Group Dynamics & Conflict Resolution
1
Objectives:
Recognize and nurture healthy group dynamics in a virtual setting
Develop strategies for resolving conflict and handling disruptive behavior
Week 6: Content
1
Understanding Dynamics:
Discuss stages of group development (forming, storming, norming, performing) in an online context.
2
Conflict Resolution:
Techniques such as active listening, mediation, and setting boundaries.
3
Case Examples:
Biblical and contemporary examples of conflict resolution in communities.
Week 6: Activities
1
Case Study Analysis
Present real-world digital group conflict scenarios. In small groups, participants discuss and propose resolution strategies.
2
Role-Play Simulations
Simulate a conflict situation in a breakout session where one participant acts as the disruptive member and the leader practices de-escalation techniques.
3
Group Debrief
Reconvene to share insights and best practices for maintaining unity and trust.
Week 7: Curriculum Design & Content Planning
1
Objectives:
Learn how to select, adapt, or create engaging curricula for digital small groups
Balance structured Bible study with open discussion and personal sharing
Week 7: Content
1
Resource Review:
Overview of recommended Bible study curricula, digital interactive resources, and online discussion guides.
2
Design Principles:
How to structure content so it's accessible, relevant, and engaging in an online format.
3
Adapting Materials:
Tips for customizing existing resources to fit the unique needs of your group.
Week 7: Activities
1
Curriculum Workshop
Divide into small groups to work on designing a mini-curriculum for a hypothetical session. Include discussion questions, multimedia elements, and an interactive activity.
2
Peer Presentations
Each group presents their curriculum outline, receiving peer feedback on clarity, relevance, and engagement.
3
Resource Sharing
Compile a list of digital resources and tools that participants can use for future curriculum development.
Week 8: Multiplication Strategies & Leader Development
1
Objectives:
Understand how to prepare for and execute the multiplication of small groups
Develop strategies to identify and mentor emerging leaders
Week 8: Content
1
Biblical Multiplication:
Study examples of multiplication in the early church (e.g., 2 Timothy 2:2) and its application to modern ministry.
2
Practical Benchmarks:
Identifying when a group is ready to split (e.g., reaching 12-15 members) and setting a multiplication plan.
3
Mentorship Models:
Introduce the "I do, you watch; you do, I help" model for developing co-leaders.
Week 8: Activities
1
Scenario Simulation
In breakout groups, work through a case study where a group reaches capacity. Develop a step-by-step multiplication plan, including leader selection and communication with members.
2
Mentorship Role-Play
Practice coaching conversations between a current leader and an emerging leader using a structured dialogue.
3
Group Discussion
Share challenges and ideas on how to maintain group intimacy even as numbers grow, reinforcing the idea that multiplication is an opportunity, not a loss.
Week 9: Practical Simulation & Live Facilitation Practice
1
Objectives:
Provide a safe environment to simulate a full digital small group session
Enhance real-time facilitation skills through practice and feedback
Week 9: Content
1
Meeting Structure Recap:
Review all components of an effective meeting—from opening prayer to closing reflection.
Learn to assess the health and effectiveness of digital small groups using quantitative and qualitative measures
Develop a system for ongoing evaluation and improvement
Week 11: Content
1
Evaluation Metrics:
Discuss key performance indicators such as attendance, engagement, participation, and spiritual growth.
2
Feedback Systems:
Introduce methods for gathering member feedback (surveys, direct conversations, digital analytics).
3
Continuous Improvement:
Strategies to refine meeting content, facilitation skills, and digital interactions based on data.
Week 11: Activities
1
Framework Design
In breakout groups, design an evaluation framework for small group meetings. Each group outlines survey questions, data collection methods, and follow-up processes.
2
Case Study Analysis
Review sample feedback data and discuss how to interpret and act upon it.
3
Peer Review
Present your framework to the whole group for constructive feedback and final adjustments.
Week 12: Capstone Project & Launch Planning
1
Objectives:
Synthesize learning from the program into a practical plan to launch a digital small group
Receive personalized feedback and finalize next-steps for ministry rollout
Week 12: Content
1
Capstone Overview:
Recap key insights from all modules, emphasizing vision, technology, facilitation, multiplication, and evaluation.
2
Launch Blueprint:
Guidelines on creating a detailed group launch plan, including vision, curriculum, tech setup, leader roles, and growth strategies.
Week 12: Activities - Capstone Presentation
Capstone Presentation:
Each participant develops and presents a comprehensive launch plan for their own digital small group. Plans should cover:
Vision & mission statement
Detailed meeting format and curriculum outline
Technical setup and communication plan
Multiplication strategy and leader development roadmap
Week 12: Activities - Feedback & Celebration
1
Feedback & Coaching
Peers and mentors provide detailed feedback, and each presenter refines their plan based on suggestions.
2
Celebration & Next Steps
Conclude with a celebration of achievements and a discussion on ongoing mentorship, leader huddles, and access to a resource hub.
Post-Training Support
1
Ongoing Mentorship:
Pair new leaders with experienced mentors for monthly check-ins during the first six months post-launch.
2
Leader Huddles:
Establish monthly or bi-monthly accountability groups for continuous learning and peer support.
3
Resource Hub:
Provide access to an online repository with recorded sessions, templates, troubleshooting guides, and updated curriculum resources.
Program Benefits
1
This detailed 12-week program not only builds technical and leadership skills but also instills a biblical vision for discipleship and multiplication.
2
The hands-on activities, role-plays, and real-world simulations are designed to prepare leaders to launch and sustain vibrant digital small groups that can grow and multiply organically.
Biblical Foundation
Hebrews 10:24-25
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Matthew 28:18-20
"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'"
Early Church Model
1
Acts 2:42-47
This passage illustrates the practices of the early church, including devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. It shows how believers shared their possessions and met together regularly.
2
2 Timothy 2:2
"And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others." This verse demonstrates the principle of multiplication in leadership and discipleship.
Leadership Characteristics
Humility
A humble leader acknowledges their own limitations and is open to learning from others.
Accountability
Being accountable means taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions.
Empathy
An empathetic leader can understand and share the feelings of their group members.
Willingness to Serve
A servant leader puts the needs of their group members before their own.
Spiritual Disciplines
Prayer
Regular communication with God, seeking guidance and wisdom.
Bible Study
Deepening understanding of God's word through regular study and reflection.
Fasting
Abstaining from food or other comforts to focus on spiritual growth.
Reflection
Taking time to meditate on God's word and one's own spiritual journey.
Digital Platforms Overview
Zoom
Popular video conferencing platform with features like breakout rooms and screen sharing.
Microsoft Teams
Collaboration platform that integrates chat, video meetings, and file storage.
Church App
Dedicated app for Living Manna Online Digital Church with custom features for small groups.
Technical Guidelines
1
Breakout Rooms:
Learn how to create and manage smaller discussion groups within the main meeting.
2
Screen Sharing:
Practice sharing your screen to present materials or collaborate on documents.
3
Recording:
Understand when and how to record sessions for those who couldn't attend live.
4
Chat Management:
Learn to effectively use and moderate the chat feature for engagement and questions.
Facilitation Techniques
Icebreakers
Fun activities to help group members get to know each other and feel comfortable.
Open-ended Questions
Questions that encourage thoughtful responses and deeper discussions.
Storytelling
Using personal or biblical stories to illustrate points and engage participants.
Communication Best Practices
1
Clear Messaging:
Use concise language and avoid ambiguity in your communication.
2
Active Listening:
Pay full attention to speakers and provide thoughtful responses.
3
Managing Digital Interactions:
Learn to navigate the nuances of online communication, including non-verbal cues and digital etiquette.
Group Development Stages
1
1
Forming
Members get to know each other and establish initial connections.
2
2
Storming
Conflicts may arise as members navigate differing opinions and personalities.
3
3
Norming
The group establishes norms and begins to work together more effectively.
4
4
Performing
The group functions smoothly, with high productivity and strong relationships.
Conflict Resolution Techniques
Active Listening
Fully concentrate on, understand, and respond thoughtfully to what is being said.
Mediation
Act as a neutral third party to help conflicting parties reach a mutually acceptable solution.
Setting Boundaries
Establish clear guidelines for behavior and communication within the group.
Curriculum Design Principles
1
Accessibility:
Ensure content is easily understood and navigable for all group members.
2
Relevance:
Connect biblical teachings to contemporary life situations and challenges.
3
Engagement:
Incorporate interactive elements and multimedia to maintain interest and participation.
Biblical Multiplication Model
1
2
3
4
1
Multiply
Leaders develop new leaders who start their own groups
2
Equip
Train and prepare group members for leadership roles
3
Disciple
Nurture spiritual growth and maturity in group members
4
Gather
Bring people together in small groups for fellowship and study
Mentorship Model: "I do, you watch; you do, I help"
1
Observation
The mentee observes the mentor leading the group, taking note of techniques and strategies.
2
Participation
The mentee begins to take on small leadership roles within the group, with guidance from the mentor.
3
Leadership
The mentee takes the lead in running the group, with the mentor providing support and feedback.
4
Independence
The mentee is ready to lead their own group, with occasional check-ins from the mentor.
Components of an Effective Digital Meeting
1
Opening Prayer
Begin the session by inviting God's presence and guidance.
2
Icebreaker
A short activity to help members connect and prepare for discussion.
3
Bible Study/Discussion
The main content of the meeting, focusing on scripture and its application.
4
Prayer Requests
Time for members to share personal prayer needs.
5
Closing Prayer
End the session by praying for the group and individual needs.
Common Digital Ministry Challenges
Technical Glitches
Internet connectivity issues, audio/video problems, or platform malfunctions.
Off-Topic Discussions
Conversations that stray from the intended focus of the meeting.
Sensitive Topics
Unexpected personal or controversial issues that arise during discussions.
Evaluation Metrics for Digital Small Groups
Attendance
Tracking the number of participants and frequency of their attendance.
Engagement
Measuring participation levels in discussions and activities.
Spiritual Growth
Assessing personal testimonies and observable changes in members' lives.
Multiplication
Monitoring the development of new leaders and the formation of new groups.
Feedback Systems for Digital Small Groups
1
Surveys:
Regular online questionnaires to gather quantitative and qualitative feedback from group members.
2
Direct Conversations:
One-on-one check-ins with group members to discuss their experiences and needs.
3
Digital Analytics:
Utilizing platform data to track engagement metrics such as attendance and participation.
Continuous Improvement Strategies
1
1
Gather Feedback
Collect input from group members and observe meeting dynamics.
2
2
Analyze Data
Review feedback and metrics to identify areas for improvement.
3
3
Develop Action Plan
Create specific strategies to address identified issues or enhance strengths.
4
4
Implement Changes
Put new strategies into practice during group sessions.
5
5
Evaluate Results
Assess the impact of changes and gather new feedback.
Program Conclusion and Next Steps
1
Capstone Project Completion:
Finalize and present your comprehensive launch plan for your digital small group.
2
Ongoing Support:
Connect with your assigned mentor and join a leader huddle for continuous learning and accountability.
3
Resource Access:
Familiarize yourself with the online resource hub for ongoing reference and support.
4
Launch Preparation:
Set a target date for launching your digital small group and begin implementing your plan.