December is more than a month—it’s a mood. It’s a season of hope, happiness, twinkling lights, warm gatherings, and hearts that are just a little more open to serving and helping others. For Bible study leaders, it’s also a golden opportunity to deepen relationships, extend invitations, and create moments that linger long after the decorations come down.

Everyone will be thinking about the true meaning of Christmas, so here are three ways to make the most of December in your group ministry. Start now, and December won’t sneak up on your and your group – again!

1. Turn Your Group into a Welcome Center

The holidays stir up longing—for connection, meaning, and belonging. That means people are more likely to accept an invitation in December than almost any other time of year. So why not turn your Bible study group into a soft landing spot for newcomers?

• Extend personal invitations to neighbors, coworkers, and church visitors. A simple “Would you like to join us for a Christmas study, or for our annual class Christmas party?” can open a door to deeper community.
• Host a low-pressure gathering like a cookie swap, ornament exchange, or hot cocoa night. These events are easy entry points for people who may be hesitant to join a formal study.
• Make space for stories. Ask group members to share a favorite Christmas memory or tradition. It builds connection and reminds everyone that faith is lived in real life.

December is the perfect time to be invitational, not just informational. Your group can be the place where someone’s holiday becomes holy.

2. Lean into the Power of Reflection

While the world rushes toward year-end deadlines and shopping lists, your group can offer something countercultural: stillness. December invites us to reflect on the incarnation, the mystery of Emmanuel—God with us.

• Choose a short Advent study or devotional series that centers on hope, peace, joy, and love.
• Create space for prayer and silence. Even five minutes of quiet can be a gift in a noisy season.
• Encourage journaling or personal reflection. Ask questions like “Where did I see God this year?” or “What am I hoping for in the year ahead?”

By slowing down together, your group can help people hear the whisper of God in the midst of holiday noise.

3. Practice Generous Outreach

December is a season of giving—and your group can model generosity in ways that ripple outward.

• Adopt a family or support a local ministry. Whether it’s gifts, meals, or warm coats, your group can be the hands and feet of Jesus.
• Write notes of encouragement to church staff, missionaries, or shut-ins. A few heartfelt words can brighten someone’s entire season.
• Invite group members to share their time. Serve together at a food pantry, host a caroling night, or deliver treats to first responders.

Outreach doesn’t have to be grand—it just has to be grounded in love. When your group gives together, it grows together.

4. Celebrate with Intentional Fellowship

December is tailor-made for gathering. People are already in the mood for connection, and your group can lean into that by hosting a festive fellowship that’s equal parts fun and meaningful.

• Plan a Christmas party with simple food, laughter, and a few lighthearted activities. Think ornament exchange, cookie decorating, or a round of Dirty Santa (where the only thing stolen is a coffee mug with reindeer antlers).

• Use the gathering to deepen relationships. Ask a few reflection questions between games, or invite someone to share a short devotional.

• Make it invitational. Encourage group members to bring a friend or neighbor. A casual party can be the first step toward deeper spiritual engagement.

Fellowship doesn’t have to be fancy—it just needs to be intentional. When people laugh together, they’re more likely to learn and grow together.

Final Thoughts

December is a sacred stretch of time. It’s a chance to welcome the weary, reflect on the wonder of Christ’s birth, and embody the generous heart of God. As a Bible study leader, you have the privilege of guiding your group through this season with intention, creativity, and joy.

So light the candles. Make the cider. Throw open the door. And let December be a month where your group doesn’t just meet—it ministers.