I am a Twitterer. I tweet therefore I am…
1) instantly alerted to new small group blogposts
2) learning of and connecting with other small group types not daily but minute by minute
3) constantly receiving info telling me of a new small group book that has been published, a small group conference that has just been announced or a concept that a small group peer just thought of
4) asking a question and getting multiple answers back within minutes from other small group pastors and gurus
If you’ve been considering twittering but have been saying things like, “I’ll go into that kickin’ and screamin.” it’s time to put on your steel-toed boots and enter a sound-proof room. Or maybe your phrase has been, “I’ll start twittering when I become one of those nerdy tech types.” Buy an iPhone, replace your PC with a Mac and get a t-shirt that announces, “I Tweet.” Or maybe you’ve been saying, “When I have time I’ll join the twitter movement.” You may find out, like I have, that being a twitterer may save you time as you are constantly getting the answers to your questions (or being directed to a blogpost or article that can) in 140 characters instead of having to read an entire book.
Because I long to learn from everyone doing good small group ministry, I am constantly working to build my small group tweep list. Below you’ll find 48 small group pastors and gurus that I am connecting with through Twitter. If you’re the small group point person for your church and you don’t see your name (these are in alphabetical order) and you twitter, please, oh please send me your twitter account name so I can follow you by responding to this blogpost. Another option…. go online and follow me (rickhowerton). When I get your request to follow my tweets I’ll choose to follow you.
Feel free to use this list to build your own. I think every person on this list would be honored if you join this network of gifted small group aficionados.
@adamworkman
@AlviRadjagukguk
@AlanDanielson
@allenwhite
@bdonahue80
@benreed
@BrettEastman
@carybranscum
@chiapperino
@colonkevin
@DaveTreat
@DavidBuckner
@DavidLermy
@deantwan
@doyleBrookshire
@Eddiecberry
@eddiemosley
@ericdunaway
@gary4n
@gatortodd
@gregmbowman
@heatherzempel
@HerschelT
@Huddude
@JBBRAUN
@jimbotts
@jimmeldrim
@joelcomiskey
@johncatkinson
@johnratz
@JoshSurratt
@kedamak
@maclake
@marcharvey
@markchowell
@MattWHarmer
@mbstockdale
@micmac1900
@mscottboren
@pkspratt
@reid_smith
@RGNeighbour
@RicDiefenderfer
@scottim
@ScottWilliams
@secondchair
@SteveGladen
@timweems
November 8, 2009 at 7:52 am
Great post, Rick! I agree with you…Twitter has been a great networking tool for those of us in the small groups field. Instant connection with groups pastors around the country is priceless.
November 9, 2009 at 10:16 am
I’m hoping to ad to this list, Ben and keep you updated.
November 9, 2009 at 12:31 pm
Thanks for this great post, Rick. Twitter has been a huge resource for me as a pastor for networking, for resourcing my leaders, and for communicating to the broader congregation. @mathyouerickson.
November 9, 2009 at 1:18 pm
I keep looking to see if I’m on your list. Still looking……
November 9, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Thanks for the list. I love how Twitter has opened doors for new conversations about groups. The insights I get from my friends here often led me to great ideas and resources.
Let me encourage another step. Form local networks, similar, but not exclusive to the Purpose Driven Small Group Network. Having intentional interaction with others in your area can bring into your conversation the cultural needs of your shared community and set the stage for missional partnerships.
November 10, 2009 at 6:59 am
Thanks for the mention Rick. I got into twitter early on (I have some geek tendencies) and have built some great relationships as a result.
November 10, 2009 at 2:35 pm
Thanks for this post, Rick. I recently started in the volunteer role of small group/adult ministry leader in my local church – definitely will use Twitter as a resource to connect! @andylie
December 3, 2009 at 8:09 am
Hi Andy, Am trying to follow you on twitter but can’t seem to find your account via @andylie. Could you help me out? If you choose to follow me @rickhowerton I’ll then get a notice and can follow you. You can then dump me if you like. I just really like to follow small group leaders and pastors. Thanks, Rick
December 3, 2009 at 3:15 am
Thank you for the list.
I’m following everybody 🙂
@SovannPen