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Great Groups

115 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago -

Great Groups are small groups that focus on making disciples. We built the podcast to encourage and equip adult small group leaders at Brook Hills and beyond.

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Episodes

Attendance Issues: Tips & Thoughts (Episode 108)

April 25, 2024 11:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MB

Our recent snapshots (feedback from leaders) indicate many groups are struggling with attendance issues. In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss having the right perspective on these issues, and they also share some tips and thoughts on ways to strengthen consistency. Jay referenced the document Small Group Essentials, which mentions faithfulness to attend. One option is to review this document with your group at the start of every ministry year (August). Thanks for listening to the Great G...

Teaching from a Bible Reading Plan (Episode 107)

April 04, 2024 10:00 - 26 minutes - 18.5 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Harry Handlin, one of our Small Group Leaders. We discuss his group, which uses a Bible reading plan together, and Harry then draws his teaching time from the plan. God's word changes lives, so we're interested in teaching plans that encourage people to read the Bible regularly. We included some ideas for groups that may not fully engage in this type of plan. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of...

Eleven Deadly Sins to Avoid as Leaders (Episode 106)

March 25, 2024 10:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MB

In this episode, Jay reviews a list of 11 things Small Group Leaders should avoid when leading their groups. The list begins with showing up late or unprepared, includes being too guarded, and closes with failing to apply the Scripture to life and to follow up with guests and prayer requests. Listen in to hear the whole list and choose a "sin" to avoid in leading your group. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay G...

Taking Next Steps in Spiritual Growth (Episode 105)

March 19, 2024 10:00 - 37 minutes - 25.6 MB

In this episode, Jay and Christ discuss challenging group members to identify and take some next steps toward growth in Christ. Next steps might be defined as small steps that lead to big change when taken consistently. Jay gets Chris' reaction to a list of ten areas where next steps may be needed. Listen in and get some ideas to help your group members grow spiritually. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordo...

Equipping Your Group to Go Strong (Episode 104)

March 04, 2024 11:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris review Equipping Your Group to Go Strong: Tips for Leaders, a document created with lots of practical ideas for your group. As we are in the final few months of 2Strong, look it over and choose some of the tips to use with your group. You can also reach the document at brookhills.org/leaderresources. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The C...

Leader Gathering Recap with Pastor Matt (Episode 103)

February 26, 2024 12:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris briefly talk about the Small Group Leader Gathering before listening to the clip of Pastor Matt's talk. Join us for some inspiration if you missed the leader gathering or just want to hear it again. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small...

Spiritual Influence with Scott & Alison Elliott, Part 2 (Episode 102)

February 19, 2024 12:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

In today's episode, Jay and Chris talk with Scott and Alison Elliott about being a spiritual influence at work, home, neighborhood, or wherever you are. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences in evangelism. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please v...

Spiritual Influence with Scott & Alison Elliott (Episode 101)

February 14, 2024 12:00 - 28 minutes - 19.8 MB

In today's episode, Jay and Chris talk with Scott and Alison Elliott about being a spiritual influence at work, home, neighborhood, or wherever you are. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences. Hear about a very entertaining weekly event called "Taco Night." Thanks ...

Fun Memories and Celebration of 100 Podcasts

February 05, 2024 11:00 - 31 minutes - 21.8 MB

Jay and Chris take this episode to celebrate our 100th podcast. We talk about favorite memories, fun guests, things we've learned, and more. Thanks to Boyd Powell for our intro. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Workplace Influence with James and Stacy Mintz, Part 2 (Episode 99)

January 29, 2024 11:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the talk with James and Stacy Mintz. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences as a spiritual influence at work and in other settings. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of ...

Workplace Influence with James & Stacey Mintz, Part 1 (Episode 98)

January 22, 2024 11:00 - 31 minutes - 21.6 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with James and Stacy Mintz. They were on our Leader Gathering Panel Discussion back in September when we focused on Going Strong to Our Community. We are in Year 2 of Going Strong. On the podcast, we take time to get to know them personally and talk more in-depth about their personal experiences as a spiritual influence at work and in other settings. Be sure to check out a Brook Hills document, Equipping Your Small Group in Evangelism. Thanks for listeni...

Take Your Group Overseas (Episode 97)

January 15, 2024 11:00 - 37 minutes - 25.9 MB

Jay and Chris talk with Fox from our Global Disciple-making Team. Your Small Group can go on your own mission trip and his team will help facilitate that with our partners overseas. Going global helps make disciples of your group and those you go to serve. Listen to see how it can work for your group. See Short-Term Mission Trip Info. See a List of Short-Term trips. For more info, please email [email protected]. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups....

Going Strong: Evangelism @ Work with Seth Hagan (Episode 96)

January 08, 2024 12:00 - 32 minutes - 22.7 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Seth Hagan, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the tech industry. We take some time to get to know Seth and talk more in-depth about his personal experiences as a spiritual influence where he works. Be sure to check out a Brook Hills' document, Equipping Your Small Group in Evangelism. Also, you are invited to see Seth's YouTube Channel, Theology with Seth. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups....

Bible Reading Journey: Plans Overview & Week 2 with David Graves (Episode 95)

January 02, 2024 11:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MB

In this episode, Jay continues the discussion with David Graves about the new year's emphasis on Bible reading in 2024. We encourage group leaders to lead their group members to engage in a plan this year. Join in on their discussion and pick up some tips for both your personal reading and for promoting a Bible-reading journey for group members. Due to scheduling conflicts and deadlines, we recorded without Chris this week. For more information on Bible Reading Plans, please visit brookhil...

The Best Tool for Disciple-making with David Graves (Episode 94)

December 18, 2023 11:00 - 30 minutes - 20.9 MB

In this episode, Jay talks with David Graves about his Bible Reading Journey. That's the name we're giving to the end-of-year emphasis to help group leaders engage their members in a Bible reading plan for 2024. Join in on their discussion and pick up some tips for your personal reading and for promoting a Bible reading journey for group members. Due to scheduling conflicts and deadlines, we recorded without Chris this week. Now we appreciate him more! (Jay had to man the board.) Thanks for...

Workplace Influence with Margie Gunter, Part 2 (Episode 93)

December 11, 2023 12:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris continue the talk with Margie Gunter, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the television industry. We take some time to get to know Margie and talk more in-depth about her personal experiences as a spiritual influence where she works.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chr...

Workplace Influence with Margie Gunter, Part 1 (Episode 92)

December 04, 2023 12:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris talk with Margie Gunter, one of our Leader Gathering panelists who works in the television industry. We take some time to get to know Margie and talk more in-depth about her personal experiences as a spiritual influence where she works.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is a...

Equipping Group Members for Evangelism: Nine Ideas (Episode 91)

November 27, 2023 13:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MB

In this episode, Jay presents nine ideas for equipping group members for evangelism. We'll refine the list over the course of the year, but we wanted to move ahead and give you some ideas to consider while it's fresh from the leader gathering. (Update: We recorded this over a month ago. Since then, we've updated the document with ideas. You can see the updated info at the first link below. And know that Chris did get his Snapshot in by the deadline!) Equipping Your Group to Go Strong  (We h...

Leader Gathering: Evangelism Panel Discussion (Episode 90)

November 02, 2023 11:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MB

In this episode, you'll hear the panel discussion from Brook Hills' Small Group Leader Gathering. The meeting focused on the 2Strong Year 2 theme, Going Strong to our Community. At the meeting, Ashley Chesnut interviewed six church members who are doing a great job of going strong to their work community. Join us and be inspired by their stories as we go strong where we live, work, shop, exercise, and play. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a...

Leader Gathering: Matt's Books & Going Strong Overview (Episode 89)

October 14, 2023 17:00 - 35 minutes - 24.2 MB

In this episode Jay and Chris discuss the 2Strong Emphasis before listening to Pastor Matt's segment from Brook Hills' Fall 2023 Small Group Leader Gathering. Matt shares some books he has been reading that fit well with 2Strong, then gives an overview of 2Strong Year Two. Join us and hear the focus for Year 2. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills i...

Welcoming, Ministry, and More with Brandon and Cate Powell (Episode 88)

September 05, 2023 10:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MB

In this episode, we talk with Brandon and Cate Powell about welcoming new people, ministering to group members, and more.  Brandon and Cate were featured on our 2023 Small Group Promotion Video. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hi...

The Power of Invitation: Brandon & Cate Powell (Episode 87)

August 25, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MB

In this episode, we talk with Brandon and Cate Powell about invitations to Small Group and a number of other things. Brandon and Cate were featured on our 2023 Small Group Promotion Video. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Launch Your Year Well (Episode 86)

August 04, 2023 10:00 - 35 minutes - 24.4 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss ten tips for launching your group year well. They also discuss a couple of good documents to use that first week, Small Group Essentials and Great Conversations. Join us and get some help launching your group well. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT profession...

Using Presentation Software in Groups (Episode 85)

July 17, 2023 10:00 - 23 minutes - 16.5 MB

In this episode, Jay & Chris talk with David McKnight, a Small Group Leader at Brook Hills, about using presentation software (Keynote, Powerpoint, etc.) in group meetings. We'll get to know David and discover how his group is involved in service and we'll also discuss a men's breakout group he has done for a couple of years. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church a...

Help! I'm Exhausted and Burned Out! (Epsiode 84)

July 05, 2023 10:00 - 31 minutes - 21.7 MB

Jay and Chris discuss what to do when you are exhausted and burned out. We've all been there. Listen up and see if any of these tips help you. Some short and long-term solutions are included, as well as some discussion of balancing all of life. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and se...

Leading Small Groups 4: Different Group Types (Episode 83)

June 13, 2023 10:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MB

In this session, Jay and Chris discuss the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt. We're on Chapter 4, Group Type Trade-Offs. There is some discussion of closed groups, which is good to know, but Brook Hills opts for an open group model to help people remain outwardly oriented. If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes...

Leading Small Groups 3: New Group Options & Missions (Episode 82)

May 31, 2023 10:00 - 26 minutes - 18.6 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris review highlights from the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt with one of our own leaders, Jeremy Simpson. This week focuses on Chapter 3: Preparing for Your Small Group. The content here is probably what you should have heard before starting a small group, but there are useful tips scattered throughout. If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for the book Leading Small Groups by Chris Surratt. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podca...

What Frustrates Me About Leading My Small Group (Episode 81)

April 25, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 15.4 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss what frustrates them about leading their Small Groups. Listen and see if you resonate with any of these thoughts. See resources at brookhills.org/leaderresources. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at ...

What I Love About Leading My Group (Episode 80)

April 19, 2023 10:00 - 23 minutes - 16.2 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris discuss what they love about leading their respective Small Groups. Listen and see if you resonate with any of these thoughts. See resources at brookhills.org/leaderresources. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elde...

Helping People Take Next Steps, Part 2 (Episode 79)

March 27, 2023 10:00 - 24 minutes - 16.6 MB

In this episode, Chris and Jay discuss helping people take "next steps" in their spiritual growth. We want you to be mindful of moving people forward in the faith. Jay's Blog Post on Next Steps 1. Follow Christ and be baptized. 2. Read and study the Bible on a daily basis. 3. Pray consistently and strategically. 4. Become a member of the church. 5. Actively participate in a Small Group. 6. Find someone to mentor you. 7. Talk about your faith with members. 8. Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit...

Helping People Take Next Steps, Part 1 (Episode 78)

March 17, 2023 15:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MB

In this episode, Chris and Jay discuss helping people take "next steps" in their spiritual growth. We want you to be mindful of moving people forward in the faith. Jay's Blog Post on Next Steps 1. Follow Christ and be baptized. 2. Read and study the Bible on a daily basis. 3. Pray consistently and strategically. 4. Become a member of the church. 5. Actively participate in a Small Group. 6. Find someone to mentor you. 7. Talk about your faith with members. 8. Exhibit the fruit of the Spirit...

2Strong Focus Study: Week 4: Saints, Sufferers, & Sinners (#77)

March 02, 2023 23:00 - 41 minutes - 28.3 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills. This episode covers 1) Encouraging the Saints, 2) Responding to Sufferers, and 3) Fighting Sin. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an I...

2Strong Focus Study: Week 3, Prayer (Episode 76)

February 23, 2023 23:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

2Strong Focus Study: What the Church Does, Week 2 (Episode 75)

February 16, 2023 11:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Creating Biblical Community - Leading Small Groups Book (Episode 74)

February 13, 2023 11:00 - 30 minutes - 21.3 MB

In this episode, we continue discussing content from the book "Leading Small Groups" by Chris Surratt. We're scheduling various small group leaders to read a chapter and discuss it with us. This week Dale and Chris continue to talk with Jay and Chris about Chapter 2, Creating Biblical Community. If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for Leading Small Groups. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordo...

2Strong Focus Study: What the Church Does, Week 1 (Episode 73)

February 10, 2023 11:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris cover some highlights of the 2Strong Focus Study, "What the Church Does." We'll do this each week of this four-week series at Brook Hills. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Meeting Leaders and Their Group: Robbins & Kendrick (72)

January 31, 2023 11:00 - 31 minutes - 21.9 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris chat with Chris Robbins and Dale Kendrick. We'll get to know them a little better and find out what makes their group tick. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Dave Halperin on Multi-Gen Groups (Episode 71)

January 17, 2023 11:00 - 30 minutes - 20.9 MB

On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Dave Halperin, leader of a multi-gen, off-campus Small Group. We get to know Dave and then ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led Navy pilot talk, and also group multiplication, breakout groups, and handling prayer in groups. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Churc...

Leading Small Groups: The Leader (Episode 70)

January 03, 2023 11:00 - 32 minutes - 22.6 MB

In this episode, we start something brand new--reviewing the book "Leading Small Groups" by Chris Surratt. We're scheduling various small group leaders to read a chapter and discuss it with us. This week includes the book introduction and Chapter 1: "What is a Small Group Leader." It's a very encouraging start with good news for every leader. We meet with Todd Norton today. If you'd like a copy, here's the link from Amazon for Leading Small Groups. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups ...

Todd Norton and Off-Campus Group Life ( Episode 69)

December 20, 2022 11:00 - 22 minutes - 15.2 MB

On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Todd Norton, leader of an off-campus Small Group. We get to know Todd and then ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led to various facets of group life and how Todd accomplishes those. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, US...

Ministry in Times of Illness or Death of a Family Member (Episode 68)

December 06, 2022 11:00 - 32 minutes - 22.7 MB

Tonight, Jay & Chris talk to Bill & Carol Brown about ministry to group members facing illness themselves or death in their family. We cover meals, visits, travel expectations for funerals, and do's and don'ts. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and E...

Elders' Role in Shepherding Small Group Leaders (Episode 67)

November 21, 2022 11:00 - 33 minutes - 23 MB

In this episode, Zac Condie is back to discuss Elder shepherding with Jay & Chris. They review the Shepherding Best Practices found at brookhills.org/elderwork and share some practical tips and stories. Zac is now Jay's Elder after Jay rotated off the Elder Council at Brook Hills.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Ch...

Zac Condie & His Off-Campus Group: Curriculum, Childcare, & Breakouts (Episode 66)

November 08, 2022 04:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MB

On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with Zac Condie, leader of an off-campus BH Small Group and also one of our Elders. We ask the typical questions about what's going well and what's not. Our conversation led to curriculum, childcare, men's and women's breakout groups, and more. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Al...

Jeff Kunard on Group Transparency, Testimonies, and Community. (Episode 65)

October 17, 2022 10:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MB

On this episode, Jay and Chris enjoy a conversation with our good friend, Jeff Kunard, one of our Elders at Brook Hills.  Jeff is an experienced Small Group leader and has recently started a new group.  Hear his spiritual story and a conversation about transparency, testimonies, and community.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Ala...

Evangelism: Slovenia. Telling Your Story. Hearing Jay's Story. (Episode 64)

September 28, 2022 09:00 - 32 minutes - 22.2 MB

Today, Jay and Chris talk about Slovenia and also discuss how to share differing length versions of your faith story. For much of the podcast, Jay shares his story and his "active testimony". Listen to learn what that's all about.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Sma...

Live Long and Prosper: Group Sustainability (Episode 63)

September 13, 2022 09:00 - 29 minutes - 20.1 MB

Today, we’re talking about how to keep your group healthy enough to survive. You’ll hear some about the importance of critical mass and changes that inevitably come to your group. Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Prayer, Group Discussion, & Brook Hills' Pursuits (Episode 62)

August 30, 2022 09:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris talk about a few random items from the previous day's Small Group Leader Gathering at Brook Hills. The discussion leads to how we can accomplish those things in groups.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Br...

Start Strong: Beginning the Group Year (Episode 61)

August 11, 2022 15:00 - 37 minutes - 25.9 MB

Today, Jay and  Chris talk about launching the new year strong. You’ll hear tips and reminders about important things to do as your group starts the year.  Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small Groups Minister at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama, USA. Chris Amaro is an IT professional and serves as a Small Group Leader and Elder at Brook Hills.

Listed and Unlisted Groups: Best Practices

July 27, 2022 11:00 - 34 minutes - 23.8 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris explore the terms open and closed groups and why our church has chosen a different vernacular, listed and unlisted groups. There are more factors than meet the eye, and we talk about how important it is to keep your group open at all times, even when it may be unlisted "for a good reason and for only a season." (Episode: 60) Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit GreatGroups.org for a list of all our episodes. Jay Gordon is the Small G...

Great Conversations: Leading Your Group Discussions, Part 2

July 11, 2022 10:00 - 27 minutes - 18.6 MB

In this episode, Jay and Chris review a document Jay created to guide groups in having great conversations. It is a document for group members that you may want to review with them once a year.  There are tips that encourage some members to speak less and some to speak more, and other tips on listening and avoiding rabbit trails. (Episode 59) Copy: http://www.brookhills.org/files/uploads/SmallGroups_GreatDiscussions2019.pdf Thanks for listening to the Great Groups Podcast. Please visit Gre...