2015 Registration is now LIVE

Don't miss out on the early bird and group discounts. Registration is now available, click here!

2015 small groups: Big Ministry

We excited to announce the information about our 2015 event, mark your calendars and watch our blog for more information!

small groups: Big Ministry was born out the common belief that small groups are important. That small groups are where lives are really changed; where real disciples of Jesus are made, grow and disciple others; and where we actually BE the church. small groups: Big Ministry is an event aimed and empowering small groups leaders to lead groups where these things happen, regardless of our ministry settings.  Chris Folmsbee, Director of Discipleship at Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, will be leading participants in an exciting two-day opportunity to explore the importance and power of small groups.  Chris will empower small group leaders with innovative ideas for enhancing your group's experience. This event is relevant for all pastors, Christian Educators, and small group leaders. Register today and don't miss out on this informative event!

Vital info:

Event Date: May 15 and 16th @ Ankeny First United Methodist Church Christian Life Center

Registration Cost: $50

Early bird registration: $40 (Deadline March 1st)

Groups of 3 or more registration: $40 each

Speaker: Chris Folmsbee, Director of Discipleship at Church of the Resurrection

Sponsored by Ankeny First UMC, thrive UMC, Aldersgate UMC

small groups:Big Ministry in video

A Note From Tony

Hello Small Group Leaders,

I am super excited to be joining you for a special event as we talk about what it means to create dynamic small groups that not only bring you closer to Christ, but also change the landscape of the church. Movements always start with one push, one domino that impacts the next until God's big picture is achieved. Movements happen in small groups.

Groups of people who come together to spur each other towards a deeper relationship with Christ, and the more I dig into this Jesus thing, the more convinced I am that it is waaaaay to difficult to do solo. A domino by itself really isn't that special, but one domino properly placed can start a chain reaction.

We all need community to face the adversity that is sure to find us during life. No matter if you are a leader, a follower, or just not sure – we need each other!

Do you know what I love most about the small groups I am in?

They change who I am. Small groups of intentional Christians have drastically altered my identity. I am a different person today because of those people who have poured into my life. I look at the world differently and know God more intimately because of the relationships that I have found in community.

There are lots of things in the world I don't understand: tax code, math, and why the American League still has a designated hitter in baseball (just to name a few), but I do understand why we need to do life in community. We were created to be in relationships so that we could see an entire picture of who God has made us to be. People that you are doing life with will always be able to see something about you that you could never see on your own.

As leaders we must be constantly be moving towards growth, and growth requires relationships.

I look forward to spending time with you as we dive into what it means to lead one of these dynamic communities!

Sincerely,

Tony

Check out the latest info and get registered!

Register Here! 

Registration Live!

Registration is now LIVE!

Check our our event schedule below and register!

Schedule

Friday night: 6:00-9:00pm

The Domino Effect: Who are you Impacting? 

•  Meet Tony and learn more about the importance and power of small groups in your local setting

Saturday morning

The Tools You Need to Lead

8:00-9:00am Gathering and worship 

9:00-10:00am Boundaries and Expectations: Stop your group from failing before it starts

10:00-11:30am Invitation and Challenge: The difference between accountability and judgment 

11:30am-1:00pm: Lunch and networking (lunch provided)

Saturday Afternoon

1:00-2:00pm: The Art of Asking Good Questions

2:00-3:00pm: Finding Your Replacement

3:00-4:00pm: Servant Leadership; washing your group's feet

4:00-5:00pm: A time for questions and answers with Tony and local leaders, dismissal and blessing

Save the date!