Breakthrough Group Facilitator Materials

Ideally a couple, this role involves the logistical preparation and management of the event. 

• Book the venue and prepare it for the event.
• Confirm the availability of the Chaplain and arrange suitable place if offering Reconciliation.
• Arrange marketing material and oversee promotion campaign.
• Coordinate hospitality (buy/donate food & drinks for refreshment break).
• Prepare print materials (Participant Notes, feedback survey, donation form, flyers etc).
• For large events, a separate couple/person to facilitate the presentation is recommended.

This should be a couple (preferred) or individual with some experience in marriage education or group facilitation.

Couple facilitators provide a potent sacramental witness. However, individuals may still be effective if a suitable couple facilitator is not available.

For small groups, the Facilitator and Hosting role may be covered by the same couple/person.

This is not absolutely necessary but strongly advised. The presence of a priest brings an added sense of investment by the Church in the support of marriage. Many marriages today are troubled by spiritual battles especially if pornography or other addictions are involved. If possible, arrange for the priest to:

• Greet the Participants at the beginning of the workshop
• Pray for them during the workshop
• Be available during the refreshment break for Participants
• Offer a blessing at the conclusion of the workshop
• Be available for the Sacrament of Reconciliation immediately after the workshop (time depends on Participant numbers)

If the priest is only available for a portion of the time, prioritise the blessing and Sacrament at the end of the workshop. 

Venue: Choose a venue that offers a measure of peace away from curious onlookers, is clean, and has suitable projection and PA facilities.

• Comfortable chairs and climate management all assist in helping the Participants focus.
• Arrange chairs singly with space between to provide privacy during the reflection activities, with sightline to the projector screen.
• Ideally the venue will have sufficient space or outdoor access for Participants to disperse during the long Forgiveness activity so that they may write in privacy.
• Access to a chapel is enormously valuable as Participants may seek consolation with the Blessed Sacrament 
• Have tissues discretely available.

Music is an important tool for setting the tone and establishing a mood. Sometimes the music should be upbeat and optimistic, other times it should be reflective. We like to use contemporary Christian songs as they have a faith element without being too churchy. You can also use music very effectively to gather the room to attention without having to shout by simply increasing the volume. Here’s a suggested music program.

1. On arrival: pleasant background music, contemporary love songs are good. Avoid breakup songs!
2. Background Music for use during reflection time: instrumental, easy listening music helps calm their nervous systems and disguise any sniffles. Best to avoid songs with lyrics as these can be a distraction and are harder to end mid-song. 
3. Ready to Start Part I: Hope, Royal Taylor: here 
4. Ready to Start Part II: Forgiveness, Matthew West: here
5. Ready to Start Part III: Home, Phil Phillips: here
6. End of Workshop: Hope Now, Addison Road: here