Large Group Handbook
Large Groups create regular opportunities to build and strengthen chapter identity through communal rhythms of teaching, hospitality, and outreach. They provide space for students to meet with God, learn from Him, and be equipped for His service both on campus and throughout their lives. Large Groups also serve as a witness to Jesus’ reality on campus through your love for one another. They are a powerful place to both receive from and partner with God.
This handbook is a comprehensive guide to starting and leading InterVarsity Large Groups on campus. Since Large Groups require significant coordination and ownership to pull off, they depend on increased levels of student leadership and intentional planning throughout the semester. When coordinated with small groups and leaders’ meetings, Large Groups can help disciple the broader chapter community and equip guests and members to grow as faithful followers of Jesus.
Large Groups also provide a unique front door for new students and non-Christians. While attending a small group Bible study could be intimidating, being one of 50 or 100 others in a room on a Friday night might be less intimidating and give students the opportunity to experience a sense of belonging, hear God’s voice through teaching, and respond through a call to faith or prayer ministry.
This handbook will help you with things such as:
- How to start Large Group meetings on your campus
- Welcoming newcomers and following up
- Planning for your Large Group meetings
- Logistics such as when, where and how often to meet
- Coordinating with speakers
- ....and more!