On Saturday, November 23rd, we hosted a training session for all potential group facilitators for Financial Peace University (FPU). Below are AI-generated notes summarizing the third session led by Nick Lenzi.
Notes for Session Three: Building Community with Nick Lenzi
- Introduction:
- Nick shared his personal journey, from working in finance to becoming Community Director at Hoboken Grace, and how FPU played a transformative role in his own life.
- He highlighted the importance of using groups to help people not only manage finances but also grow spiritually.
- Three Goals for Leaders:
- Build Strong Relationships: Create an environment where group members feel connected and supported.
- Spark Real Conversations: Move beyond surface-level discussions to address meaningful, life-changing topics.
- Foster Growth and Transformation: Focus on applying biblical principles to see lives change both financially and spiritually.
- Key Challenges in Talking About Money:
- Money is deeply personal and often tied to identity, making it a vulnerable topic.
- Common barriers for participants include:
- Fear of losing control over how they spend.
- Shame over financial struggles, especially in diverse-income groups.
- Reluctance to revisit budgeting or stewardship, even if they’ve done it before.
- Biblical Perspective:
- “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). How we manage money reflects who we are and what we value.
- Transformation happens when people align their financial habits with God’s priorities.
- Group Values for FPU:
- Show Up: Consistent attendance builds trust and community.
- Join In: Encourage active participation and ensure all voices are heard while protecting the group from distractions or tangents.
- Be Real: Vulnerability fosters connection, and authenticity leads to transformation.
- Practical Tips for Leaders:
- Ground Rules: Clearly communicate expectations for attendance, participation, and respect within the group.
- Encourage Vulnerability: Lead by sharing your own challenges and growth.
- Adapt Questions: Customize FPU discussion questions to fit your group’s demographic, such as singles or those without debt.
- Celebrate Wins: Acknowledge milestones like paying off debt or reaching savings goals to keep group momentum strong.
- Roles in the Group:
- Individual: Responsible for their own growth and taking action.
- Group Members: Provide mutual support and encouragement.
- Facilitator: Guides conversations and creates a safe, supportive environment.
- Church: Partners with facilitators to offer resources and support.
- Encouraging Transformation:
- Transformation is more than behavior modification or knowledge transfer; it’s about heart change.
- Leaders should model realness over perfection, showing that God works through our imperfections.
- Closing Thoughts:
- Small group leaders have a significant role in helping people grow spiritually through stewardship.
- By showing up, joining in, and being real, leaders create spaces where God can work in powerful ways.
Follow us