In small groups gathered for the purpose, conversation is a fragile plant, which needs a good deal of care and attention. When a group is forming (or is meeting only once) it is usually necessary for a specific individual to take responsibility for how things develop. It is a time for sensitive leadership by someone who models the best way of operating, manages the interaction and looks after the developing needs of participants, particularly if they are in conflict with one another. This type of leadership is often referred to as ‘facilitation’.

A facilitator is someone who tries to make it easy for others to successfully accomplish what they set out to do. In the case of the type of small group we are considering, the desire of the group is to talk about the spiritual dimension to life. In each small conversation group it is the task of the facilitator to help those involved find a positive way of relating, so that the truth they each possess may be expressed, appreciated and explored.

Some people are naturally gifted in this activity but most people would benefit from some form of training, if only to raise their awareness, update their skills or give them the confidence to work with small groups.

Conversare provides a variety of training opportunities for individuals or groups who wish to become more familiar with our conversational approach or develop their facilitative skills.