Most of Your Church Is Not in a Small Group (What’s Really Going on?)

There have been a number of organizational shifts in American evangelicalism over the past thirty years. A de-emphasis on denominational ties is evident across thousands of churches in the United States. More and more churches are switching from “First Baptist Church” to “The View” on their signage. There’s also been a huge uptick in praise and worship music during most services. Way more drums and guitars and a whole lot less pipe organs and hymnbooks. But there’s another trend that has been embraced by evangelicalism and is worth some reflection and assessment: a real commitment to getting members not just to show up for Sunday worship but also to have another connection point to the larger congregation.  The term “prayer meeting” has been common in American Christianity for hundreds of years, but churches have also added Bible study groups and other religious education programs. Some traditions offer a catechism class Already a member? Log in Unlock premium content! Get access t