Discussion Guide

1. Opening Prayer (5 minutes)
Begin the gathering with a prayer to center hearts and minds on God’s presence as you reflect on the past year and look ahead with faith.

Prayer:
"Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of a new year and the chance to gather here today. As we reflect on the past year, seek renewal in our lives, and look forward to the future, we invite Your presence into this space. Guide our hearts and minds to Your truth and help us to trust in Your promises. May this time together strengthen our faith and encourage us to live boldly for You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen."

2. Icebreakers (10 minutes)

SisterHood Year in Review: "If you could describe your past year in one word, what would it be? Why?"

Moment of Gratitude: Share one thing you are grateful for that happened in the past year.

These questions will help set a reflective and uplifting tone for the discussion.

3. Reflecting on the Past Year (10 minutes)

Scripture to Reflect On:
"Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me." – Isaiah 46:9

Discussion Questions:

  • What is one moment or decision from the past year that taught you an important lesson?

  • How did this experience shape your faith or perspective on God’s plan for your life?

  • How can remembering God’s faithfulness in the past encourage you as you move forward?

4. Pressing Refresh Activity (15 minutes)
Introduce the concept of "pressing refresh" in areas of life that may feel stagnant or challenging.

Discussion Prompts:

  • When you think about "pressing refresh," what area of your life comes to mind first? (e.g., relationships, spiritual growth, health, mindset)

  • What steps can you take to embrace renewal in that area?

  • How can leaning into your faith help you let go of what no longer serves you and step into God’s plan for renewal?

Encourage participants to write down one specific area they want to refresh this year and one action step they can take toward renewal.

5. Looking Ahead with Faith (15 minutes)

Scripture to Reflect On:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." – Jeremiah 29:11

Discussion Questions:

  • What is one promise from God’s Word that you want to hold onto as you step into the new year?

  • How can this promise encourage you when challenges arise?

  • What steps can you take to deepen your trust in God’s plans for your life this year?

6. Hopes for the Future (15 minutes)
Shift the discussion to setting intentions and sharing hopes for the year ahead.

Activity:
Encourage participants to write a letter to their future selves, including:

  • One thing they want to remember a year from now.

  • A hope or goal they have for this year.

  • A reminder of God’s faithfulness and promises.

Discussion Prompts:

  • If you could tell your future self one thing to remember a year from now, what would it be?

  • How does this reflect the hopes or goals you have for this year?

  • What steps can you take now to align your actions with your hopes for the future?

7. Closing Prayer (5 minutes)
End the gathering by thanking God for the opportunity to reflect, refresh, and look ahead with faith.

Prayer:
"Father God, thank You for this time of reflection, renewal, and hope. We are grateful for all that You have taught us in the past year and for the new opportunities that lie ahead. Help us to hold onto Your promises and trust in Your plans for our lives. May we walk forward with courage, guided by faith, and empowered by Your love. Bless our community and help us to support one another in living out Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen."