Tried small group ministry and failed? Then try one more time with James Newby if you want to:

• Empower participants to be more effective ministers regardless of profession;


• Increase the biblical and theological literacy of participants;


• Deepen the ability of adults to reflect on the twin poles of life and faith; and


• Revitalize congregations and edify community.

Based on his successful workshops that have changed lives and churches, Newby presents a practical program for developing small group ministries that work. He shows clergy and lay leaders how to select, train, and motivate small group leaders and their groups. You will discover how small group ministry can become the linchpin of your church's revitalization.

Gathering the Seekers was originally published as a book by the Alban Institute in 1995. The Congregational Resource Guide heartily thanks Dr. James Newby, the Alban Institute, and Lilly Endowment Inc. for enabling Gathering the Seekers to be made available online. (Parts of the original book have been modified to allow you to use this site more easily as an online tutorial.)

On the next two pages, you can read about the author and sponsors of this tutorial, as well as get some handy tips on how to navigate this site. Then join Dr. Newby as he shares the processes and resources for launching a vital small group ministry in your congregation—Nurturing Experience Theologically (NET) groups.

We welcome your feedback on this tutorial; please let us know how it was helpful to you, how you would like to see it improved, and what additional resources you would recommend. Click on the "Feedback" item in the main menu on the left and complete our feedback form.

If you have additional comments or questions for either the CRG team or Dr. Newby, feel free to contact us at crg@alban.org.

Thank you, and welcome!