A plan for the first family-group gathering

Adapt this plan for a first small gathering of married couples. It does not assume a full conference programme or special preparation from participants. Agree on the format with your team and the community providing the space.

Before the gathering

Share the purpose, time and location. Explain whether participants may bring children and what arrangements are available. Invite people in advance without promising services or facilities your team cannot provide.

Opening

Introduce the hosts and invite each couple to introduce themselves briefly. Agree on respect for personal stories, the right to pass on a question and no recording without agreement. Asking what people hope for from these gatherings is enough for an introduction.

Main conversation

Choose one accessible subject, such as time for two. Ask couples to discuss a question privately first: what helps us pay attention to each other, and what is missing in an ordinary week? Afterwards, people who wish to can share a general thought. Avoid asking for public accounts of marriage disagreements.

Closing

Ask what was useful and which subject people would like to discuss next. Agree on how invitations will work and who will arrange the next step. Thank the participants and team.

Afterwards, review the plan with the hosts. What worked, what was unnecessary and which responsibilities should be shared differently? For support with a new team, explore mentoring meetings.