Ruth was the faithful 50-something teacher who radiantly welcomed me to Junior and Earliteen Sabbath School many years ago.
Her genuine care and interest in young people was a powerful illustration of what God’s love is like, and it was timely and compelling to me. Her lessons were simple, understandable and biblical. Aside from my own mom, she was the most influential layperson in my life and, though she rests in Jesus, I vividly remember her Christlike face to this day.
Sabbath School and small group Bible studies are critical for the church to fulfill its calling. In fact, I would go so far as to say the church does not really function/exist, as God intended, without small groups.
In this increasingly disconnected world, they have never been more important than now, especially for young people.
Forming a small group fellowship or a weekly Sabbath School group is a meaningful way to nurture spiritual growth, foster deeper relationships and provide consistent support among believers of all ages. Could God be calling you to start a needed group from scratch or to revitalize an existing group?
Through my years of intergenerational ministry, I’ve learned a few principles that can help shape a dynamic, engaging environment — one where members of all ages learn, share and grow in Christ together.
1. Define the Purpose and Vision
Every successful group begins with a clear purpose. Consider why you want to form a small group fellowship or Sabbath School. Pray about it and articulate a vision statement that addresses the needs in your community. Share this vision with potential members to ensure everyone is on the same page. Strong groups include Bible study, prayer, fellowship and outreach.
2. Gather a Core Team
Start by identifying a few committed individuals who share your vision. A core team of two to four people can help with planning, inviting others, organizing meetings and sharing leadership responsibilities. This team should be passionate, reliable and willing to invest time in the group’s growth.
3. Plan the Structure and Schedule
Decide on the group’s format: Will you meet in person, online or both? Choose a convenient time and location, such as a member’s home, church or community center. A weekly meeting creates consistency and routine. Meetings typically last 60–90 minutes, allowing time for study, discussion, prayer and fellowship.
4. Select Study Materials
Choose resources that match your group’s spiritual maturity and interests. Sabbath School classes often use quarterly guides provided by our denominational publishers, but you can also select Bible study guides, devotionals or topics relevant to your members. Encourage input from the group and rotate teaching/facilitating responsibilities to keep things fresh.
5. Foster an Inclusive and Supportive Environment
Create ground rules that ensure everyone feels welcome and respected. Encourage open dialogue, active listening and confidentiality. Make it a practice to check in on each other, celebrate milestones and support members through challenges. The goal is to build trust and create a safe space for spiritual exploration and growth.
6. Incorporate Prayer and Fellowship
Dedicate time for prayer. Sharing prayer requests and praise reports strengthens bonds. Include time for informal fellowship — perhaps a simple meal or refreshments — before or after your meetings to deepen relationships beyond study.
7. Encourage Outreach and Service
A vibrant small group is not only inward-focused, but also outward-looking. Identify ways your group can serve the wider community, such as volunteering, supporting local missions or inviting guests to special events. Outreach strengthens group unity and fulfills the call to make a positive impact.
Building an impactful Sabbath School or small group fellowship takes intentional planning, commitment and prayerful leadership. These practices help cultivate a community marked by spiritual growth, mutual support and Christlike love — a place where every member is valued and encouraged to grow in faith together.
That kind of community brings deep fulfillment and joy, both for those who lead and for those invited into a true discipleship journey.
As you turn the page and step into this Sabbath School–themed issue, we invite you to pause and reflect: What is the current health and vitality of your local Sabbath School? Where is God already at work — and what might the next step of growth look like?
