Hosting JOG for large groups

The JOG is designed for groups of 6–12 participants. When attendance exceeds 12, divide participants into breakout groups of 6–12 people for discussions, each with a nominated group lead to help with simple moderation and timekeeping. A large-scale JOG is generally classified as 50 or more participants and requires additional planning due to venue, time, and facilitation constraints.

For large-scale JOGs, there are two main approaches:

Option 1 — Multi-day or weekly (preferred):

• Ideal for large church settings. Divide the JOG into weekly sessions, allowing participants to reflect and internalise content progressively.
• A catalyst first hosts a one-day JOG with church leadership and small group leaders. Those trained leaders then run the JOG within their own groups.
• Catalysts can subsequently be trained in JOG Lite and Plus formats to continue multiplying the experience across the church network.

Option 2 — One-day large group:

• Uses JOG Lite format. Reformat from the outset for maximum interactivity: divide participants into groups of 6–12 from the start, with a group lead per table.
• Use timers and one-minute warnings to manage group reporting and keep to schedule.
• A catalyst facilitates plenary segments while group leads manage table discussions.

Across both options, brief all facilitators on GP's no-fundraising commitment, remind group leads of their moderation role, and plan follow-up to ensure the JOG's impact is not limited to a single event.

📍 Large group JOGs can be a great way for churches or organisations to introduce generosity conversations at scale, but they require more preparation. Consider scheduling a follow‑up Core or Plus JOG for those who wish to go deeper. Need help planning a large-scale JOG? Contact your regional coordinator or Catalyst.