Many Quaker meetings and churches have used the “Friendly Eights” small-group model to build community among Friends and attenders. These groups include eight members or attenders who typically meet once a month. They share a potluck meal and spend time in fellowship. Some Friendly Eights groups continue for months or years. Others provide a one-time opportunity to deepen relationships among people who may not know one another well.

Visitors who step through the doors of our meetinghouses often seek both meaning and belonging. Small-group opportunities can help meet this need for connection. They can also help integrate newcomers into the life of the meeting. These groups allow newcomers to become known and develop friendships.

With this in mind, consider organizing “Friendly Sevens” groups within your meeting community. Groups could meet on a regular schedule for potluck meals or social outings. Reserve the eighth spot in each group for a newcomer.

Keeping one spot open for a newcomer reminds Friends of the importance of welcoming visitors. In the meantime, the Friendly Sevens schedule can also strengthen relationships among Friends who already participate in the meeting community.