TN127 Identify your church's groups

First published on this website in October 2020 and last updated in September 2024

Synopsis

It can be helpful for leaders to be aware of all the sub-groups that exist in their church. This can then explain why people behave in certain ways at different times. It may also be important for communication as often one group will be aware of information not known by another group.

The notes suggest 25 different groups that will exist, divided into four categories.

Natural groups
These exist beyond the church itself. Examples include extended families, where people live, age, employment and ownership groups. Some churches have powerful family groups within the congregation. In a live-streaming world the ‘ownership’ group of those without internet access needs to be considered carefully.

Influencer groups
These may not be so obvious. Examples include those held in high respect whose opinions others take note of, those hurt by a church incident years ago, those who moan about life and oppose any change. Such groups may explain why some leadership decisions sail through while others get blocked.

Short-term groups
These can be important for noting who has received an item of communication and who has missed out. Examples include those at a one-off activity, those at last Sunday’s evening service, those who did not go to the weekend away.

Official church groups
These are the groups everyone is aware of. Examples range from the entire membership, through management groups (councils, committees), to the church’s small group structure.

The notes then give a range of applications where knowing these four sets of groups can be important.

These notes were updated in September 2024 with minor amendments to the text and layout.