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  6. I Want My Life Group to Meet in Public Space.. How Do I Do That?

I Want My Life Group to Meet in Public Space.. How Do I Do That?



Equipping Life Group Leaders to Thrive in Public Spaces

Why Meet in Public?

During this series, Pastor Dudley has invited all Life Groups to meet in public locations so others can:

  • See your open Bibles

  • Hear your Christ-centered discussions

  • Be stirred to ask questions about faith

Public gatherings create visibility for the Gospel and model a life following Jesus in everyday spaces (Matthew 5:14–16). Though it may feel unfamiliar, it often leads to:

  • Surprising conversations

  • Deeper relationships

  • New people joining your group

Suggested Public Meeting Spaces

If you're unsure where to meet, here’s a list of potential venues:

Food & Beverage Locations

  • Coffee shops

  • Juice bars & smoothie shops

  • Cafes

  • Donut shops

  • Restaurants

  • Store cafeterias (e.g., IKEA)

Outdoor & Recreational Spaces

  • Parks

  • Playgrounds (seating areas)

  • Walking or bike trails (rest stops)

  • Beach areas, piers, and boardwalks

  • Marinas, harbors, docks

  • Sports complexes (outside areas)

  • Dog park sitting areas

  • Outdoor shopping plazas or town centers

  • Theater & performance venue courtyards

  • Business courtyards (after hours)

  • Laundromats

Educational & Community Spaces

  • Libraries

  • Community centers

  • College/university campuses (e.g., CSUN, CSULA, UCLA, USC, COC, Pierce, Moorpark, Mission)

Retail & Commercial Spaces

  • Malls

  • Target, Costco, grocery store seating areas

  • Hotel lobbies (with permission)

  • YMCA & gym common areas

  • Parking lots (tailgate-style)

Planning for Success

Choose Wisely

  • Scout the space before meeting

  • Consider lighting, noise, seating, parking, hours, and restrooms

  • Choose a place where you can talk openly but respectfully

Have a Backup Plan

Life is unpredictable. Identify a secondary location in case of:

  • Bad weather

  • Unexpected closures

  • Overcrowding

  • Noise or other interruptions

Tips for Leading in Public

Communicate Clearly

  • Confirm time and place each week

  • Use group texts, calendar invites, or apps to keep members informed

  • Notify your group early if anything changes

Be Flexible

  • Expect occasional surprises in public places

  • Rotate between a few familiar spots if needed

  • Stay open to adjusting as the group evolves

Respect the Space

  • Encourage every member to make a small purchase (if in a business)

  • Don’t block walkways

  • Clean up and thank the staff

  • Ask permission before holding ongoing meetings at private businesses

Stay Safe and Aware

  • Meet in well-lit, public spaces

  • Address any safety concerns as a group

  • Use discretion in nighttime or unfamiliar locations

Leading with Grace and Confidence

Be Bold but Gracious

  • Don’t hide your Bible or shy away from prayer

  • Share Jesus in a way that’s joyful, respectful, and natural

  • Let your tone and presence reflect the love of Christ

Answer Thoughtfully

  • Be aware others may overhear—respond with humility and compassion

  • Use wisdom when discussing sensitive topics

  • If you don’t know the answer, respond honestly:

    “That’s a great question—I’m not sure, but I’d love to look into it more.”

Invite with Intention

  • Public spaces can feel less intimidating to new guests

  • Let people know they’re welcome to listen in, no pressure to talk

  • Keep an extra chair open—someone may join you unexpectedly

Final Encouragement

With a little planning, prayer, and faith, your Life Group can turn any everyday location into holy ground—a place where people encounter God through Scripture, conversation, and community.

You are the light of the world. Shine bright. 💡