Abstract This paper reviews Em Griffin's book "Getting Together: A Guide for Good Groups," which discusses setting up and leading groups from a Christian worldview. The writer categorizes three types of groups, and explains how Griffin draws on his many years of experience in small groups to give the reader insight as to the process by which a group becomes what Griffin considers to be good, or effective. The writer discusses some of the tools that Griffin advocates and explains why psychological techniques in the group process should be used in the church community, contrary to the beliefs of some. The writer concludes that Griffin has succeeded in writing a useful guide for creating what he believes is a good group and given the reader practical methods for meeting those goals.
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From the Paper "The atmosphere that the writer created in the construction of this book can be described as honest self disclosure. Perhaps due to the extensive reliance on personal experience, Griffin seems to bare his soul on many occasions. His honesty concerning failure, vulnerability, personal growth, and self disclosure leave the reader trusting him in a way that he could not have accomplished with a theoretically oriented book. The reader can relate to his shortcomings, and successes, and picture himself at some point along Griffin's spectrum of personal growth. It is almost as if he creates a roadmap to being a better group leader."
