Q.How do I get a copy of the “Gospel Reflections Facilitators Guide” from this website?
A.Registered users may download a free copy of the guide. Registration is free.
Q.Are Gospel Reflection Groups Bible study groups?
A.Gospel Reflection Groups are not Bible Study groups. Though the group reflection is centered around a weekly Gospel passage, the focus of Gospel Reflection Groups is on recognizing Christ’s presence in the everyday journey of our lives and in the lives of those around us. There is one teacher in each Group: the Holy Spirit, who inspires members to share real life stories, struggles, and events with each other as a way to support one another in our own personal walk with Jesus.
Q.Who can join a Gospel Reflection Group?
A.We believe that Gospel Reflection Groups should be eccumenical and open to all Christians and those searching for Christ. The groups are to be an instrument of healing of the one Body of Christ in answer to Christ’s prayer.
Q.How long are Gospel Reflection Group meetings?
A.Understanding that our members have other commitments and responsibilities outside of the group, meetings are kept to no more than one hour in length.
Q.What role does the facilitator play in the group during meetings?
A.The facilitator of the group merely acts as the coordinator of the prayers and the hour, but does not govern. Should a meeting become monopolized by another member, a facilitator may step in to redirect the meeting to include others by actively encouraging the other members to share their reflections.
Q.I’m not well-versed in theology or the Bible, can I still become a leader/facilitator?
A.Becoming a facilitator requires no formal education in theology or training. The only thing required to become a successful facilitator for a Gospel Reflection Group is the willingness to invest time into organizing your meetings and a desire to support and welcome anyone who is seeking Christ to your group.
Q.Should our pastor or priest be the facilitator of our Gospel Reflection Group?
A.Pastors and priests are welcomed and invited to join Gospel Reflection Groups. It is encouraged, however, that they not serve as the facilitator as this may inhibit the sharing of other members of the group.
Q.What supplies do we need to begin our Gospel Reflection Group?
A.Pens, Prayer books, Prayer cards, the weekly Gospel reading and Gospel Reflection Insights Worksheets will be sent regularly via e-newsletter. Please click here to join our mailing list. These resources should be provided to those attending each week, and members should be encouraged to bring their own Bibles or Magnificat to make notes or highlight important information. Click here to visit our Store.
Q.What is the optimal number of group participants?
A.We have found that groups composed of 10-40 members are optimal. Should your group grow to more than 40 members, you may want to consider splitting the group into two groups or adding an additional meeting each week, so that members may get the most out of the discussions and reflections from their fellow brothers and sisters in the group.
Q.When are typically the best times to meet?
A.The best times to host these groups are commonly 7:30 to 8:30 in the morning or evening.
Q.How can I connect with other men and women that are not part of my group?
A.The best way to connect with other Gospel Reflection Group members is through our resources online. We have set up profiles on Facebook and LinkedIn to serve the needs of members of Gospel Reflection Groups everywhere. These resources also allow you to connect with other spiritual brothers and sisters across the country who are reflecting on the same Gospel passage for the week that your group is reflecting upon.
