FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions that have come up in our regular running of Being With sessions or are regularly asked during training. There are some additional videos hidden in these FAQs.
We think the best way to find out is to give it a go and find out.
But the big premise is that we believe over all God wants to be with us and God is seeking to do this and has been since day one. We are simply trying to pay attention to this.
There is no real 'right' way to do this, but here are a couple of suggestions:
1. Have a minute or so of silence. Tell people you are going to do that, then perhaps offer a wondering.
2. Ask: I wonder what is going through your heart or head.
3. Ask: I wonder if there was anything from the last x minutes that has stuck out for you?
4. Ask: I wonder if there was something that you found particularly difficult about that story?
5. Ask: I wonder if there is something you wish you would have said but didn't.
It depends if you are in person or online. One suggestion is when you have 10 minutes or so left, perhaps ask; is there anything that you would particularly like to say before the session ends?
This gives some space for the conversation to conclude and for people to speak that might have been quiet.
This has opened up the conversations in new and completely different ways and been life giving.
Encourage the group to gather again or at least exchange contacts.
Invite them to a service at church (although we think this works better before the last session - try week 6 - the church one).
Suggest they could go to the pub/bar/park - as a group - you do no have to go.
We would avoid setting up a WhatsApp group because you may end up becoming the admin for the group - giving you an additional role!
Messaging services are a great way for the group to communicate and might be something they want to set up.
We say no.
Because we think it serves as a distraction, perhaps in ways you don't think about. People feeling uncomfortable eating, unsure unspoken etiquette, dislike your lasagne, or any number of things.
Clarity about the reason for meeting with firm time boundaries, communicate just how seriously we are taking peoples faith and their experience of God - no distractions.
Obviously if people have a coughing fit then get them some water!
Give it a go see if it works.
Remember changing the environment changes peoples experience - both negative or positive. It is more about communicating this clearly and your intention.