I am a moderator of a self-directed support group.

First decide on whether the group should be exclusive or inclusive; I mean the criteria for prospective membership. For example, as this is at a church, what are their expectations? Would they allow inclusion of all persons regardless of orientation, and belief structure? Personally I don't believe it right that a support group be exclusionary but you need to respect the church's wishes.

Thus, talk to your priest/minister/pastor. What would their expectations be. You may have to consider meeting at another location. What would the rent or honourarium to the church be? You may have to do some fundraising or ask that attendance at meetings be by donation. Will the church allow full use of the hall, ie can you use the kitchen for making coffee? Will you have to supply your own brewing equipment? How will the group pay for coffee and supplies? (we ask for people to take turns supplying coffee, etc as the need comes up)

Regarding money: you wll need to appoint/elect a treasurer and set up a bank account.

Figure out the rules, boundaries, and expectations. Write them down - I can help you with this.

Advertising. This could be pamphlets at various clinics, etc. We have found it very successful with a free-advertisement in a community newspaper. There are also several online services that you can post a page on (211, community information pages, etc).

This sounds like a lot of work but once everything falls into place it will run itself.

As for moderating, my group takes turns so that everyone has the opportunity to lead the group. With a self moderated group you need to be very careful about the limits of what people can say. Without at professional present it becomes a fine line between offering friendly advise and offering clinical recommendations. Thus, when it is apparent an individual should seek help it is vitally important they be recommended to do so while refraining from offering diagnoses or medical advise.