What Happens in Emmaus Follow-up Groups?
Since my Walk, I have been active with a group of people who meet weekly for encouragement, support,
and prayer for one another's spiritual well being, for others, and for our church.
—Layperson from New Mexico
Persons traditionally refer to the follow-up groups as "group reunions" or "reunion
groups," though they have other names as well, such as "fourth day groups," "accountability
groups," "share groups," "discipleship groups," and "Christian support groups." The follow-up
groups have a common purpose: our perseverance in grace. Group members reinforce one
another's desire to maintain constant communion with Christ and contact with other
Christians who share a vision of life lived wholly in the grace of God.
Emmaus group reunions meet at regular times, usually weekly for an hour. The meeting
consists of persons' sharing the stories of their walk with Christ during the past week. The
pattern on the reunion card, which everyone receives on the third day of the Emmaus Walk,
guides the sharing.
First, each person reviews his walk with Christ through the practice of the threefold discipline of
vital piety, study, and service. Second, each person reflects on the ways she has experienced
Christ's presence and calls to action. Third, each person shares plans for living out his or her
discipleship in the week to come. The meeting concludes with announcements and closing
prayers. During the group meeting, members listen to one another, celebrate the grace of God
in each person's life, and reinforce each persons commitment to living in union with Christ in
all facets of daily life. The members express that reinforcement through gentle accountability,
encouragement, and support.
Men and women commonly form separate groups. But many groups form without regard
to gender. Some people prefer groups that include men and women. Still others enjoy the
advantages of meeting as married couples. Most groups are all laity, some include clergy, and a
few are all clergy.
