>> Question of the Month by Ron Youtsey

Meeting Schedule

Q. Our group has been meeting every week during the 40 Days campaign. Some of the group members want to change the schedule to every-other week. How often should a group meet?

A. We encourage groups to meet weekly whenever possible, but people’s schedules are sometimes stretched due to work needs and family plans. An every-other week schedule can still fulfill the purposes of a group as long as the members’ commitment remains strong.

A weekly schedule provides a more regular connection for the members and allows for occasional absences without disrupting your group’s growth as a community. An every-other week schedule puts a little pressure on members to make it to every meeting, and usually requires other events and activities to adequately build relationships.

If you go to every-other week meetings, be sure to discuss some options for other times to get together during the month. Perhaps a 5th week of the month meal or outing, including family, can supplement your study time.

Whatever schedule you pick, make sure the group gives priority to all planned meetings, and members agree to be accessible to each other as needed for strong relationships.