Chalice Circles
“People come to church longing for, yearning for, hoping for … a sense of roots, place, belonging, sharing and caring. People come to a church with a search for community, not committee.” — Glenn Turner
Chalice Circles
What is a Chalice Circle?
A Chalice Circle is a small group of people (approximately 10 to 12 members) who gather once a month for approximately an hour and a half in a safe setting to speak from their lives and experiences with the assurance that their words will be heard and respected.
In Unitarian Universalism, we recognize that each person has learned some share of truth and each has gained some hard-won wisdom. Through the spiritual practices of deep listening, authentic sharing and respectful silence, Chalice Circles affirm and promote the UU values of pluralism and equity. We are all sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology. We declare that every person is inherently worthy and has the right to flourish with dignity, love, and compassion.
What happens at a Chalice Circle?
Chalice Circles meet at the church, a member’s home, or remotely via Zoom.
Topics vary by group and meeting. The facilitator may choose a topic, participants might suggest a subject, or the group may have a special interest that is pursued. The internet (including the UUA website) offers endless ideas for discussion. The role of the program facilitator is typically rotated.
Session plans are simple and typically consist of these elements:
- Food (Optional)
- Opening words/Chalice lighting
- Check-In
- Introduction of the topic for discussion
- Reflection and Sharing
- Check-Out
- Closing Words/Extinguishing the Chalice
What are the benefits of a Chalice Circle?
A Chalice Circle is a way to:
- make deep and meaningful connections.
- deepen our spirituality through shared practice.
- share our thoughts on life’s big questions.
- connect across age, gender, ethnic, economic and other differences.
- bring together the newer and the long-time members in our community.
- practice fellowship as each circle performs a service project for the congregation or larger community.
How are Chalice Circles managed?
Members and friends (age 18 or older) of the Congregation may join a Chalice Circle at any time. New Chalice Circles will be formed at any time of the year as demand requires.
Although groups are free to remain together for as long as it works for them, Chalice Circles are encouraged to form a new circle each church year to help develop wider connections over time. Each year our Congregational Life Coordinator, Janet Taylor, will reach out to Chalice Circles and determine which individuals will be joining a new Chalice Circle for the following church year. New circles may be formed at any time.