Methods
Facilitators must be committed to learning the basic skills of group communication and how to apply them. Personal preparation enables facilitators to be clear about their focus—which is the group—to pace the meeting, and to visualize themselves in their role as facilitators. Most importantly, their spirit of prayer will inspire them to respect each catechist or teacher and to rely on the gift of the Spirit in carrying out the ministry of facilitation. After all, their witness and enthusiasm is an important factor in working within the group.
Clarifying Goals and Objectives
The goals and objectives for each meeting are outlined in the Session Plan of the Manual. But what do they mean to the members of the group?
The goal is the main outcome toward which everyone in the group works. It is the primary aim of a session. Objectives describe specifically what the participants will learn by the end of their study and group meeting experience. The goal and objectives drive the session forward. The facilitator can help the learners link everything they do in a session—study, activities, discussions, review—with one or more of the session's objectives and, ultimately, with the goal.
Facilitators should choose objectives for each session of Into the Fields that are specific, concrete, and measurable. As they observe how the group experiences the session, they can assess how well the goal and objectives are attained (at least to a degree).
Creating a Welcoming Space
It is ideal to work in a room where you can place the Sacred Scriptures prominently, possibly with a candle or other icons of our faith. To ensure that the participants truly feel they are entering a welcoming atmosphere, the group facilitator should prepare this space before their arrival. This will also allow them to be present to the participants as they arrive.
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