Hospitality is an important aspect of any successful LifeGroup because it creates an environment for people to grow spiritually and relationally. A hospitable environment can help people be open to all that God has for them when you meet, regardless of what your conversations look like. 

Ready to find out more? Here are nine helpful practices you can use to create a welcoming environment. 

Before LifeGroup

1. Pray Beforehand. Use this time as an opportunity to recenter your heart and mind on God. Ask for His presence to be felt by everyone who attends your LifeGroup, and for the wisdom and empathy you need to lead your group well. You can also pray specifically for those who will be attending your group to be positively impacted by your time together.
2. “Set the Table.” This is a helpful way to think about your LifeGroup’s physical environment. What can you do to create a comfortable space? This could involve setting out drinks and snacks, tidying up, and providing enough seating. If appropriate, you may also turn on some music to create a pleasant atmosphere for your guests.
3. Limit Distractions. It’s a good idea to scan your environment and see if there are any distractions that might limit the ability of your LifeGroup to stay focused and present. Common distractions include electronic devices and external noise. Taking the time to limit these distractions can be very helpful.

During LifeGroup

1. Welcome Your Guests. Take time to welcome your LifeGroup by greeting them at the door or acknowledging them when they walk in. Making people feel seen is a crucial step in being hospitable, especially with people who might be trying your group for the first time. If someone is new to the group, introduce them to others so they don’t feel alone.
2. Recap the Previous Week. If your group has met more than once, consider refreshing the group on what you covered in your last meeting, especially for anyone who couldn’t make it the previous week or for new guests who are just starting out. By doing so, you’ll ensure everyone starts on the same page.
3. Set Expectations. Tell your LifeGroup what they can expect from your time together. This step is helpful when you have new guests, because it gives them a heads up about what’s to come. Two things worth mentioning: What content will you be covering? And how long will your time together last?

After LifeGroup

1. Provide Clear Next Steps. Let the group know what their next steps are. This could look like starting a Bible Plan together, trying out a new spiritual practice during the week, or attending a weekend service together.
2. Close in Prayer. Seeking God through prayer is a powerful way for your LifeGroup to wrap up your time together. You can pray for specific needs in the group or offer a general prayer for everyone as you finish up.
3. Reset. If you’re hosting in a public space like a coffee shop, it’s important to leave the space in the same—or better—condition than when you arrived. Doing so shows you respect the owner of that space and ensures you can continue meeting there.