Leader Guide
The Leader Guide is here to support you as you host a space for conversation, reflection and discovery. It offers structure and encouragement, while leaving room for you to shape sessions in ways that fit your group and context.
You do not need to have all the answers. Your role is to listen well, hold the space with care, and journey alongside others.
What you’ll find
The Leader Guide is divided into the following sections:
Invite people
Guidance on inviting others into the group with confidence and care, using personal, welcoming approaches that help people feel at ease from the very beginning.
Before the first session
Guidance to help you get ready, including creating a welcoming space, thinking about group size, and preparing yourself to lead with confidence and care.
Session structure
An overview of the shape of each session, including timings, activities and the rhythm that helps groups feel safe and included.
Advice for leaders
Practical advice on listening well, encouraging participation, handling silence, and supporting group dynamics.
Customising On The Way
Ideas for adapting sessions to suit different contexts, abilities and settings, while keeping the heart and flow of the course.
After the final session
Suggestions for reflection, follow‑up and next steps once sessions finish, including how groups might continue journeys of faith.
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Advice for leaders
Create a space where people feel safe to be honest, where conversation can unfold naturally, and where everyone feels welcome.
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Customising On The Way
Every group is different, and On The Way is designed to work in lots of settings.
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Invite people
How people are invited makes a big difference to who comes, and how welcome they feel.
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Before the first session
How you begin together sets the tone for the whole journey.
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After the final session
Ending well matters. Taking time to pause, reflect and celebrate can help people recognise what has changed.
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Session structure
Each session follows a similar rhythm. Timings are flexible and can be adjusted to suit your group, energy levels and context.
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Invitation to Membership
Becoming a member of the Methodist Church involves a personal choice and commitment.
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