Here are some ways to develop group closeness outside of meeting times and to maintain contact when the group takes a break.

1. Start a Round Robin Letter. Ask someone to write one or two paragraphs to update group members on their life, list some prayer requests, and then mail it to another group member who will do the same thing, and so on. It's fun to see comments written on the side like, "Way to go!" or "Praying for you." This keeps the group connection strong during group breaks.

2. Say it with cartoons. The comics section is a gold mine for shared anxieties (diets, work, children, dates). Cut out a strip and mail it to your friend with a note that you're praying for him.

3. Computerize a banner message. Make someone's day in a gigantic way. Ask someone with a computer to help you create a whopping happy birthday, congratulations, or vote for . . . (on election day) banner.

4. Hit the airwaves. Call your Christian radio station and dedicate a meaningful song to someone in your group who is going through a tough time. If it's personal, use a pseudonym for your friend. Then call that person and tell him or her to listen to a "special message" on the radio.

Submitted by Corinne Hamada Holmquist

© Copyright 2003 Smalley Relationship Center

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