Investigating high levels of small group participation in churches: case study research from Australia

This paper reports on research into the phenomenon of higher levels of participation in church small groups using a Case Study methodology. Specifically, it studies three Australian churches with high levels of small group participation. The study of these exemplary cases yields information about no...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Hussey, Ian (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group [2020]
In: Practical theology
Year: 2020, Volume: 13, Issue: 4, Pages: 372-384
IxTheo Classification:HA Bible
KBS Australia; Oceania
KDD Protestant Church
KDE Anglican Church
KDG Free church
RB Church office; congregation
Further subjects:B Case study
B Recommendations
B church culture
B Small group participation
B Community
B Bible study
Online Access: Volltext (Resolving-System)
Description
Summary:This paper reports on research into the phenomenon of higher levels of participation in church small groups using a Case Study methodology. Specifically, it studies three Australian churches with high levels of small group participation. The study of these exemplary cases yields information about not only what makes for attractive church small groups but also how congregations can foster high levels of participation. The research identifies the development of a churchwide culture of invitation and hospitality, structures that support high levels of participation and an emphasis on Bible study as the focus of the small group gatherings as crucial factors. These findings counter criticisms of church small groups suggested by some scholars.
ISSN:1756-0748
Contains:Enthalten in: Practical theology
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1080/1756073X.2019.1636478