This guide assumes a model for cell church in which all members are responsible for the success of the group and are called to lead at some point. It does not require an experienced or designated leader/facilitator. It relies on the simplicity and depth of Scripture as the central focus for sharing, learning, and growing. Scripture is examined at an experiential level that does not require a Scripture scholar or theologian to moderate the group. Questions are designed to accommodate any level of understanding and self-revelation.
The material also includes the group process guidance essential for the formation of a tight-knit group. The group process instructions are brief and simple. The material permits the group to address and review the ground rules for its operation. At the concluding session, the material enables the group to determine how and if it will continue after its initial formation.
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Why Small Faith Communities in the Marianist Tradition?
Marianist Lay Communities originated in the communities founded in France by William Joseph Chaminade, who, together with Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon and Marie Thérèse de Lamourous, laid the foundation for the present Marianist Family. The challenge they faced: How do you rebuild a Church decimated by government persecution and devastated by civil war? Their answer grew from the simplicity of a profound faith and astute observation of the social situation in which they found themselves. The Marianist answer to rebuilding the Church, as valid then as today, was: gather them, form them, and send them.
Gather them. Blessed Chaminade and his collaborators understood the gathering of people in community as the most effective method and witness of faith. They understood community to necessitate inclusion of everyone regardless of age, occupation or social class. Marianist communities always are to be a reflection of the catholic or universal nature of the Church.
Form them. Once gathered, the community becomes an agent for forming both individuals and the community in faith. Meditating on Scripture, understanding the virtues of Christ, becoming proficient in prayer of the heart and other spiritual exercises form Marianist communities for their mission.
Send them. Community and formation are preparations for mission—most simply put, to “go and do likewise.” Marianist communities have a responsibility to multiply themselves: to form other communities in the manner and faith in which they were formed. Particular attention in this process of multiplication is toward the young and those who are poor and marginalized. This is how Marianists understand the role of small faith communities as mission to build the Church and transform the world to Christ.
In the current era characterized by globalization, competitiveness, and obsession with success, we are just as much in need of community, a concrete, visible place that responds to the needs of ordinary men and women to belong, to transform the world, and to reflect on the communal dimension of our faith.
Suggestions for Groups
Preparation: All group members should read and reflect on the assigned Scripture passage and do the Action/Outreach suggestions. Your reflections on the Scripture will greatly enrich both your own learning and the group discussion. The convener designated for the session should be familiar with the materials.
Time: Each session should begin and end according to the schedule decided by the group.
Atmosphere: Create a relaxed atmosphere. Be respectful and supportive of each member. Encourage the expression of ideas and feelings. Avoid forcing your own viewpoint. Be comfortable with periods of quiet.
Setting: Chairs should be arranged facing each other with as few obstacles between as possible.
Format: This format should be viewed as a guide and not a master. Allow for flexibility to satisfy the needs of the group and for creativity to keep up interest. Any variations that make the group more comfortable and fruitful should be instituted. For example, members could be asked to take a moment of silence to journal key thoughts in response to discussion questions prior to group discussion. Be creative.
Scripture: Several Bibles should be available for each gathering. Participants are encouraged to bring a personal copy.
Discussion: All group members are viewed as equal participants and equally responsible for the success of the group in following discussion guidelines. Avoid the temptation to teach, lecture, or dominate the discussion. Encourage all members to participate but never pressure anyone. If the group strays from the topic, gently draw them back. If discussion is fruitful, do not rush. It is not necessary to respond to all the questions.
Shared Prayer: Praying spontaneously will be a new experience for many people. Members should have the freedom to pray aloud or remain silent. Tapes or other music may be used to set the mood for the Opening Prayer and Shared Prayer sections.
Fellowship/Refreshments: Coffee, tea, and simple refreshments are best reserved until the end of the session, though groups may decide to do this at the start of the meeting or eliminate it altogether in favor of other forms of fellowship. Food/snacks are not a requirement but a nice addition. Be sure to keep it simple, being mindful that all who host a gathering may not have the same means to "entertain." Don’t set a standard that others feel they have to live up to.
Additional Suggestions for Conveners
Group size: A small faith community work best when it is between 6 and 10 people. Larger gathering are possible, but in that case the group should be broken into small groups (4-6) during the faith sharing portion of the gathering.
Duration: A group needs four to six sessions closely spaced in time (one or two week interval) in order to form the tight bounds of a community. After the initial formation, a schedule that meets the needs of the group can be adapted.
Invitations: Invite people to attend a single trial session. If they want to continue, they are asked to commit for the remaining seven sessions. The materials are designed to accommodate this.
Convener’s role: The Convener's main role is to call the group together, welcome the participants, and act as the host for the group. Avoid becoming the leader, the expert, and the person to whom everyone addresses their questions. In a forming group you will likely feel the pull to play this second role. This is a common occurrence especially in the first session when there can be awkward silences. Here are a few suggestions to help you remain in the role of host and equal participant.
- Invite the other members of the group to read the questions (rotate around the group). This takes the focus off you as the leader.
- Do not take responsibility for questions that are posed, even if directed to you. Instead, turn the question back to the group, even if you "have" the answer. The Holy Spirit speaks through the shared wisdom of the group.
- When there are silences, count slowly to yourself to 20—someone else will definitely jump in. In fact, many people need those gaps before they will speak up. If you always fill the space, people will become "trained" to wait for you.
Small Group Agreement
Described below are some guidelines that will help the group form as a community and allow all members to feel valued and to participate freely. These are ideals that will take some time and effort to cultivate, so accept that mistakes may happen. It is important, however, that all members agree to work toward these ideals.
Commitment
- I will make attending group meetings a priority—others depend upon my attendance.
- If an emergency arises, I will give notification to the host.
- I will prepare in advance so others may benefit from my faith and experience.
- I will arrive on time.
Listening
- I will work at being a good listener:
- by "actively" listening, with both my responses and my "body language."
- by accepting and appreciating what others share.
- by refraining from giving advice or counsel and from teaching or lecturing.
- by avoiding interrupting or finishing others’ sentences.
- by validating others’ feelings.
Being Open and Real
- I will let others know what I believe and how I feel about sharing it.
- I will avoid attempting to appear perfect, "together," or in control.
Valuing Differences/Allowing Conflict
- I will value the individual differences that challenge people to grow and learn and work together.
- I will encourage people in their strengths and accept them in their weaknesses.
- I will express what is true for me and leave room for others to disagree.
- When we disagree, I will look for the common ground and the values we share.
Confidentiality
- I agree that all that is said in the group is said in confidence and will stay in the group.
I agree to work toward these ideals.
Signed _______________ Date ________________
Session 1: Getting Started with the Beatitudes
Convener Notes: Be sure to start on time. Hand out “Becoming a Caring Community” materials as people arrive and use “Human Bingo,” located on the last page as an icebreaker (optional). Name tags may be helpful for the first and second meetings. Once people are settled, pass a single copy of the “Group Directory” around and have each attendee fill out the name, address, and phone number portion (leave line open for Session 2). Then begin with the opening prayer.
Opening Prayer
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! [Matthew 7:7-11] Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. [Psalm 9:10]
Lord God, you are trustworthy and true. So often our hearts yearn for a direction to follow, an answer to our questions, or a solution to our problems. Help us Lord to ask, seek, and knock, for you will never forsake those who seek you. We pray in union with your Holy Spirit. Amen.
Introductions and Expectations (45 minutes, including icebreaker) - Introduce the objectives for this session:
- Introductions to other group members.
- Learn and experience what a Small Faith Community is all about.
- Discern if individual’s expectations are consistent with the purpose and format of the group.
- Understand and accept the responsibilities of being a group member.
- Pair off with someone you do not know well and briefly introduce yourself. Tell them an interesting fact about yourself. Discuss what your expectations are for this group during the next seven sessions.
- Form into the large group again and introduce yourself to the group by describing what brought you to sign up for a group and what your expectations are for the group.
What is Faith Sharing? The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12)
Convener Notes: Have a group member read the Scripture passage aloud. Then, if there are more than 10 people present, break into groups of 4 to 6 until the Large Group Discussion section.
Looking Into the Scripture (15 minutes) - Give everyone the opportunity to answer the first question. Then, go around again on the second question.
A. Define what one of these qualities means to you. How or why does it relate to the promise that follows it? Each person takes one at a time.
- Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
- Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
- Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
- Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
- Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
- Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
- Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
B. How much do you value these beatitudes? How much does society at large value them?
Additional/Optional Faith Sharing Questions (if more time is available)
A. If you were in the crowd on the mountainside when Jesus taught these things what might your reaction have been?
B. If you were to measure yourself on these beatitudes, on which would you score the highest? The lowest?
C. In practicing these Beatitudes have you ever experienced the related "blessing"? If so, how?
D. Of these eight qualities, which do you desire most in your life? How could this group help you to grow in that area?
Group Note: If you discussed in smaller groups, return to the large group and discuss the following questions. Make sure that all have the opportunity to participate.
Marianist Moment (15 minutes)
- Blessed Father Chaminade would challenge every Marianist and Marianist community to look to the Beatitudes and use them as a measure for growing in our Christian Faith . . . to be poor in spirit, to be meek and gentle, to reach out to those who mourn, to feed the hungry, to be merciful toward those that offend us, to be pure in heart, to be peacemakers, and to find ways to help those that are persecuted. Marianists express an explicit solidarity with the poor and the marginalized and live out this commitment in dedicating their time, skill, energy, and resources to a variety of activities that promote justice, peace, and the integrity of creation.
- What are practical ways we can heed the call of Jesus to bring justice in the spirit of the Beatitudes—to stand with the poor, the marginalized and dispossessed, and to respect all human life and all creation?
Large Group Discussion (15 minutes)
A. How did you feel about sharing your faith?
B. How often do you have the opportunity to discuss your faith as you just did? Why?
What is a Small Faith Community? (15 minutes)
- Read/review "Why Small Faith Communities in the Marianist Tradition?" on page 4. How does this description match your experience here?
- Have your initial expectations been met so far?
What is Action/Outreach? - In each session you will be asked to take some simple action that reflects the theme and Scripture used in the meeting.
- Until next session pray for this group and ask God to confirm in your heart your commitment to participation in the next seven meetings. Please communicate your decision to the host/hostess if you decide not to continue.
- If possible, take action on one of the practical ways discussed to bring justice in the spirit of the Beatitudes—to stand with the poor, the marginalized, and dispossessed and to respect all human life and all creation.
- In preparation for next session, read and reflect on the Annunciation—Luke, chapter 1, verses 26-38
Closing Prayer - Hold hands and say the Lord’s Prayer and the Marianist Doxology (May the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit be glorified in all places through the Immaculate Virgin Mary). Amen.
Fellowship/Refreshments
Session 2: The Annunciation – Hearing God’s Call
Convener Preparation: Make copies of Group Directory.
Convener Notes: Be sure to start on time, but be flexible enough to allow members a few minutes to catch up on what has been happening in their lives since the last meeting.
Opening Prayer (Convener Note: Have someone volunteer to pray the opening prayer.)
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither
the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything
else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in
Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 8:38-39] For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them. [Matthew 18:20]
Christ Jesus our Lord we come together in your name and acknowledge your presence here among us. Nothing can separate us from God’s love that is in you. Help us to share freely and openly with one another the simple works of faith that you are doing in our lives. Amen.
Life Experience (20 minutes)
- Review of Life - Each person should have the opportunity to answer one or both of the following questions.
- What has happened in your life since the last meeting? How does this relate to your faith?
- What are some experiences you are looking forward to having in the future?
- Action/Outreach response - Make sure all have the opportunity to participate.
- What factors influenced your decision to continue on with this group? In what ways did prayer help in your decision?
- Were you able to take action in any way to bring justice in the spirit of the Beatitudes—to stand with the poor, the marginalized and dispossessed, and to respect all human life and all creation?
Scripture: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)
Convener Notes: Read aloud the “Looking Into Scripture” questions. Then have a group member read the Scripture passage aloud. If there are more than 10 people present, break into groups of 4 to 6 until the Large Group Discussion section.
Looking Into the Scripture (10 minutes) - Give everyone the opportunity to answer the first question. Then, go around again on the second question.
A. What truths about Jesus are emphasized here?
B. What expectations must have been raised in Mary? What risks does she agree to take on in accepting God’s call?
My Own Story (40 minutes) - Give everyone the opportunity to answer the first question. Then, go around again on the second and third as time permits.
A. In what area of your life do you need to believe with Mary that ―nothing is impossible with God‖? What keeps you from believing this?
B. If an angel were to appear to you today to tell you God is with you and to reveal God’s plan for your life, how do you think you would respond?
C. In what ways is God calling you to bring Christ into the world around you? What are the risks or concerns associated with taking action on this call?
Large Group Discussion (15 minutes) (Group Note: If you were in smaller groups, return to the large group and discuss the following questions. Make sure all have the opportunity to participate).
A. What did you learn from your small group discussion?
B. What was the benefit to you in listening to others’ faith experience?
Marianist Moment (5 minutes)
- Marianists exhibit a desire for growth in understanding of and relationship with Mary. They discover Mary in the Scriptures, and their approach to works of mercy and justice is framed by Mary’s attitudes of listening to the Word of God, openness to God’s Spirit, acceptance of the will of God, simplicity, hospitality, and fidelity. They ally themselves with Mary in her faith and her mission and are inspired by her Magnificat to care for the poor and to reject violence.
- In what tangible ways can we translate Mary’s "yes" to bring Christ into the world to our current situations?
Evaluate Meeting (15 minutes) - Be open and honest about anything that might prevent your full participation in the group.
- Are you aware of any risks involved in joining this group? What were the risks involved in your sharing your ideas and experiences?
- Read notes on Fellowship/Refreshments in the "Suggestions for Groups." Decide as a group how you would like to handle this part of the meeting.
- Agree on a convener for the next group meeting. Confirm meeting time and place.
Action/Outreach (Convener Note: Read this session’s Action/Outreach assignment and make sure that all understand it.)
- Pray and take action on a tangible way you discussed to follow Mary’s "yes" and to bring Christ into the world around us.
- Read "Suggestions for Groups" on page 5.
- In preparation for next session, read and reflect on the Visitation—Luke, chapter 1, verses 39-45.
Closing Prayer - Hold hands and say the Lord’s Prayer and the Marianist Doxology (May the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit be glorified in all places through the Immaculate Virgin Mary). Amen.
Fellowship/Refreshments
Session 3: The Visitation—Welcoming God's Word
Convener Notes: Be sure to start on time, but be flexible enough to allow members a few minutes to catch up on what has been happening in their lives since the last meeting.
Opening Prayer
Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me and I shall be saved, for you
are the one I praise. [Jeremiah 17:14]
Almighty God, you are the one we praise. Each one of us comes here in need of healing. Stretch out your hand as we gather together in your name and let us feel your healing touch. We pray in unity with all your angels and saints. Amen.
Life Experience (20 minutes)
- Review of Life - Each person should have the opportunity to answer one or both of the following questions.
- What has happened in your life since the last meeting? How does this relate to your faith?
- Name an experience of the Lord—or of his absence—since the last session.
- Action/Outreach response - Make sure all have the opportunity to participate.
- Were you able to take action on a tangible way you discussed to follow Mary’s "yes" and to bring Christ into the world around us?
- Discuss the "Suggestions for Groups" on page 5. What other suggestions might you have for this group?
Scripture: The Visitation (Luke 1:39-45) - Read aloud the “Looking Into Scripture” questions. Then have a group member read the Scripture passage aloud. If there are more than 10 people present, break into groups of 4 to 6 until the Large Group Discussion section.
Looking Into the Scripture (10 minutes)
A. Mary hurried to share her news with Elizabeth. Why might Elizabeth have been her first confidante?
B. What were the elements of Elizabeth's greeting? How might Mary have felt when she received it?
My Own Story (40 minutes) - Give everyone the opportunity to answer the first question, then do the same on the others as time permits.
A. Who do you feel blessed and honored to welcome into your life? Who is a model of faith for you?
B. Have you ever felt the urge, like Elizabeth, to shout out the truth that is on your heart? What did you do? Do you believe the Holy Spirit was your motivation and guide?
C. See verse 45. (“Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.”) What is God asking you to believe that will be fulfilled in your life? What will be your blessing if you do believe?
Large Group Discussion (15 minutes) - Return to the large group and discuss the following questions. Make sure all have the opportunity to participate.
A. What did you personally appreciate in your small group discussion? What insights did you have?
B. Read and briefly discuss the description of why we break into smaller groups:
Very early and throughout this program group members may desire to have the entire group stay together instead of breaking up into smaller groups. This may sound like a good idea, but in larger groups (more than nine or ten) it is typical for several people to become silent and apprehensive about sharing their insights. The talkative members may find themselves dominating discussion even if they do not intend to. In groups of four to six most of the problems of group dynamics will be avoided. Wait until there is complete consensus in the group before you start staying in the large group throughout the session.
Marianist Moment (5 minutes)
- Elizabeth offered Mary a place of safety, welcome, and hospitality . . . a place where she could share what was in the depths of her heart. Marianists and Marianist communities are hospitable and inclusive, making all feel welcomed. They respect persons, are open to diversity, and welcome new members and guests with joy and simplicity.
- When have you experienced a place of complete welcome and openness to who you truly are?
Evaluate Meeting (15 minutes) - Be open and honest about anything that might prevent your full participation in the group.
- See notes on Format in the "Suggestions for Groups." Decide as a group if you would like to change or add to any portion of the format. (Format gradually becomes much less explicit in remaining sessions. Shared prayer section is added.)
- Agree on a Convener for the next group meeting. Confirm meeting time and place.
Action/Outreach - Read this session’s Action/Outreach assignment and make sure all understand it.
- Be attentive to how God's word becomes present to you—through a person, an event, or an experience. Each time, take a moment to consciously welcome God's Word.
- Read the "Small Group Agreement" on page 7.
- In preparation for next session, read and reflect on the Magnificat – Luke, Chapter 1, verses 46-55
Closing Prayer - Hold hands and say the Lord’s Prayer and the Marianist Doxology (May the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit be glorified in all places through the Immaculate Virgin Mary). Amen.
Fellowship/Refreshments
Session 4: The Magnificat—Giving Glory to God
Opening Prayer
If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him! [Luke 11:13] The Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things. [John 14:26]
Heavenly Father, we become your children through faith in Jesus Christ. As your children we ask for your Holy Spirit of truth to be with us and guide us as we meet together. Holy Spirit, help us to learn all the things that you desire to teach us this day. We pray in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Life Experience (20 minutes)
- Review of Life
- What has happened in your life since the last meeting? How does this relate to your faith?
- Action/Outreach Response
- Were you able to experience and welcome God's Word becoming present to you—through a person, an event, or an experience?
- Discuss the "Small Group Agreement" on page 7.
- Which of these ideals do you most appreciate? Which do you find most challenging?
- As a group, where are we doing well? Where do we need to improve? Agree to any changes or additions.
Scripture: The Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) - Read aloud the “Looking Into Scripture” questions. Then have a group member read the Scripture passage aloud. Use the following discussion starters in the format agreed to by the group in the last meetings.
Looking Into the Scripture (10 minutes)
A. For what does Mary glorify God in her song?
B. How are these main themes later fulfilled by Jesus' life, death, and resurrection?
My Own Story (45 minutes) - Discuss the following questions as time permits.
A. When are you prompted to give glory to God? How do you express your praise?
B. What great things has God done for you? Would others call you "blessed"?
C. Who do you see as the "the proud," "the rulers" and "the rich" in today's world? Who are the "the humble" and the ―lowly"?
Large Group Discussion – as needed (10 minutes)
A. What did you personally appreciate in your small group discussion? What insights did you have?
Marianist Moment (5 minutes)
- Mary’s heart was ever present to the working of the Holy Spirit. Marianists aspire to reflect this disposition through self-knowledge, faith development, and growth into the virtues of Jesus. They make an ongoing commitment to personal and community prayer, listening to the Word, openness to spiritual guidance, and celebrating their faith through the Eucharist. This commitment increasingly transforms their lives and impels them to realistic and effective service to others.
- What spiritual disciplines do I need to be present to the working of the Holy Spirit?
Evaluate Meeting (15 minutes) - Be open and honest about anything that might prevent your full participation in the group.
- Comment on what went well and what did not go well in today’s meeting. How did we do with regard to our "Small Group Agreement?" Agree to any final updates.
- Agree on a Convener for the next group meeting. Confirm meeting time and place.
Action/Outreach - Read this session’s Action/Outreach assignment and make sure all understand it.
- Keep a list of things that come to mind which prompt you to give glory to God.
- Until the next session pray for each of the members of this group by name.
- Read and reflect on the story of Jesus’ birth in Luke 2:6-20.
Closing Prayer - Hold hands and say the Lord’s Prayer and the Marianist Doxology (May the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit be glorified in all places through the Immaculate Virgin Mary). Amen.
Fellowship/Refreshments
PLEASE CONTACT PATI KRASENSKY AT 215-634-4116 or PATIKRAS@GMAIL.COM FOR SESSIONS 5-8.
Group Directory
Create a group directory listing all members names, home address, email address, cell phone number, and when they would like to lead the opening prayer.
Icebreaker Exercise—Human Bingo
Individually circulate within the group and fill in the blocks with the names
of people who meet the criteria. Exercise is complete when each person
has each other group member written down at least once. When you have returned to your seats, summarize what you have learned about each other.
