In Chalice Circles, we look within ourselves and find stories drawn from the wellsprings of our own lives using the “Soul Matters” Curriculum. We bring forth stories of individual victories and defeats, personal fears and disappointments, private insights and concerns. Each person speaks, others listen.
Everyone speaks. Everyone is heard.
This small- group ministry is entering its 14th year at First Unitarian Universalist Church and is a foundation group here at First UU. Chalice Circles are led by trained facilitators who have experience with holding space in this time of deep listening. The circles are made up of 7-10 people, meet at a set time monthly for 2 hours, and offer you a time of deep, contemplative discussion on a variety of topics.
Facilitators needed for 2024-2025 Chalice Circles
Chalice Circles, our small group ministry at First Unitarian Universalist Church, are small connection and discussion groups that use the church wide “Soul Matters” curriculum and meet our needs for belonging and meaning. These groups which meet monthly, build friendships and provide opportunities to contemplate the big questions of life. Chalice Circles are designed to enrich our community with the sort of conversation and attentiveness that can be difficult in the busy life of a growing congregation. When congregation members are having their needs for connection and spiritual deepening met, they want to give back to their faith community.
If you have enjoyed your experience as a member of a Chalice Circle over the years, OR are interested in learning more, we invite you to consider deepening your connection to this vital church program by serving as a Chalice Circle Facilitator for the 2024/2025 session.
A Chalice Circle Facilitator:
- Holds the space for all members of the group
- Keeps the process feeling safe and fair to everyone
- Participates as a member of the group
- Receives easy training, you choose the date/time of your circle
We are looking to add facilitators for:
- Young Adult Group (Ages 20-30)
- All female group
- All male group
- Co-ed group
For more information, inquire with Melissa Eggler
congregationlife@uurochmn.org
Example of a Topic Packet from Soul Matters
Questions? Please contact Melissa Eggler at 282-5209 or congregationlife@uurochmn.org
~ “Being in a Chalice Circle is a wonderful way to connect with other members of the congregation. I appreciate the opportunity to think deeply about a subject, and hear other people’s ideas which serves to shape and reshape my own thoughts.” ~ 2016/17 Chalice Circle Member
~ “Do it! It’s a great way opportunity to connect with others while growing your spirit!” ~2016/17 Chalice Circle Member
~ “It’s a chance to hear the life experiences of others in ways that are uplifting, focused and enlightening.” ~2016/17 Chalice Circle Member
~ “Being a Chalice Circle Facilitator has been an important part of my spiritual journey, and gifted me with deep thought and listening.”~ 2017/18 Chalice Circle Facilitator
Rev. Luke Stevens-Royer, Minister
Melissa Eggler, Coordinator of Congregational Life
What happens at a Chalice Circle meeting?
Each session focuses on a reading. Some readings address spiritual topics, such as gratitude, balance, nature, or God. Other readings reflect themes such as listening, loss and grief, forgiveness, or friendship. Some readings will mirror the Minister’s sermon topics. Members respond to the topic questions by sharing personal experiences and feelings. Chalice Circles are not study groups or debate teams, but rather focus on sharing and listening. Chalice Circles follow a consistent pattern that includes an in-gathering, candle lighting, a sharing of highs and lows over the past month, silence, shared readings and personal responses to the readings, announcements, and closing words.
Where and when does a Chalice Circle meet?
Each Chalice Circle decides whether to meet in participant’s homes or at the church. Groups meet once a month for two hours. In addition, Chalice Circles engage in service to the church or larger community.
How big is a Chalice Circle group?
The ideal size is 7-10 members, including a facilitator. As the circumstances of people’s lives change, the membership of a group may change over the year. New members will be welcomed in an ongoing group with an opening or in a newly formed group.
How long does a Chalice Circle last?
Sign up for Chalice Circles will take place each September, with groups beginning in October and running through May. If the group chooses, meetings can continue through August. In September, groups will disband and new groups will be created to start in October.