The Bible in a Year Retreat
Small Group Leader Info Night
Join Marisa Beyer, The Bible in a Year team leader, to learn how to become a BIY Retreat small group leader, February 18-20, 2022:
Live Chat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still be a small group leader if I can't attend the live info night session?
Absolutely! The video will be available for viewing after the live session to help you decide whether or not the role might be a good fit for you.
What is the time committment involved in being a Small Group Leader?
Small group leaders will be required to attend the full Bible in a Year retreat, from 4:30 PM ET on Friday, 2/18/2022 through 6 PM ET on Sunday, 2/20/2022. Leading up to the event, there will be a 5 minute tech check on Hopin (our virtual event platform) that you will complete on your own time, and a one hour training session on the Hopin platform that you will need to attend. Multiple training sessions timeslots will be offered to provide flexibility for our leaders.
What is the retreat schedule?
There will be four main sessions beginning Friday night and ending on Sunday afternoon. Each session explores a different dimension of continuing a life immersed in the Word of God, and each session will include a presentation either by Father Mike or Jeff Cavins, an opportunity for fellowship with other Bible in a Year listeners, an interactive prayer experience, and the chance to reflect on what you've experienced, either in your virtual small group or on your own.
Friday - Opening Session: 6:00 PM - 8:45 PM EST
Saturday - Morning Session: 10:00 AM - 12:15 PM EST
Saturday - Afternoon Session: 1:45 PM - 4:30 PM EST
Saturday - Evening Session: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM EST
Sunday - Afternoon Session: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM EST
Do I need to be a tech wiz to be a small group leader?
You don't need to be a tech wiz, but being comfortable with technology, a quick learner, and having experience with other video meeting platforms (e.g. Zoom or Teams) will go a long way! You'll be helping attendees unmute or mute themselves, turn their cameras on or off, and in some cases, adjust security settings within their browser if they're having trouble. Relatu, our event management team, will bring you up to speed on everything you need to know and will help you troubleshoot during the event, if needed! Relatu will also help your group members if they need any assistance beyond these basic tech needs.
What technology platform will I be using to lead a virtual small group during the event?
The event will be held on Hopin, a virtual events platform that fosters a high level of audience engagement. You will be provided access to Hopin ahead of the event, as well as training on how to use it as a small group leader. Our event team has customized the platform for a simple, beautiful Bible in a Year Retreat experience.
What are the perks of being a small group leader at the Bible in a Year Retreat?
You will receive a complimentary ticket, an exclusive 15 minute prep & prayer session immediately before the event with Fr. Mike Schmitz, a free t-shirt, and some special "thank you" surprises along the way. But the most important thing we think you'll get out of this event is the experience of helping facilitate meaningful connection amongst other Bible in a Year listeners.
What things are you looking for in a Bible in a Year Retreat small group leader?
We're looking for a group of friendly members of the Bible in a Year listening community who are passionate about continuing the BIY mission and deepening connections between other members of the community.
How do I apply to be a small group leader?
You just need 10 minutes to fill out and submit this electronic form.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for submission is 11:59 PM EST on Sunday, December 5, 2021.
How and when will I know if I've been selected as a Bible in a Year small group leader?
All applicants will be emailed with the status of their application prior to the pre-opening of ticket sales on December 7, 2021.
Do I need any special technology to be a small group leader?
All you'll need is a laptop or desktop computer with a webcam and mic, along with a strong internet connection.
Can I lead my own small group experience outside of the virtual event platform (e.g. with my own parish small group or a group of friends)
Absolutely! You can fill out the application and we'll contact you with suggestions on how to proceed. It will be important for you to make sure that your small group attendees do not sign up for the Ascension-organized small group experience within the Hopin platform, as you will facilitate that experience independently.