What is a Covenant Group? Why are they called that?
Covenant groups are small groups of people who will meet to have conversations about some of life’s big questions. These groups are more focused than a chat after a Sunday morning service, but they’re not study groups. They are thought provoking, open ended discussions that nurture a sense of belonging and friendship. They provide an opportunity for people to reflect and share thoughts and feelings, to get to know some fellow UUs in a deep and meaningful way, and to practice living UU principles in community. The facilitators who guide the meetings are specially trained and supported by the ministers.
Who can benefit from Covenant Groups?
Newer friends and members of the congregation as well as long time folks. People of all backgrounds, ages, and gender identities.
What is discussed?
Topics to be explored this session include UUSS’s February – April monthly themes: power and humility, sustenance and sustainability, and earthly journeys.
How are Covenant Groups run?
Here’s a typical format: Centering words and chalice lighting; reviewing the covenant (agreement among the participants of how they will treat each other); check-in; short reading; sharing responses to the questions related to the topic of the meeting; discussion, (responding briefly to something another person said or to relate additional thoughts that may have occurred as others shared); extinguishing the chalice.
What is the commitment to join a Covenant Circle?
Groups will meet 6 times between the start of the sessions and April. No in-depth preparation is needed to participate, and a meeting outline that includes the weekly topic or area of discussion is provided in advance to allow for some awareness and comfort prior to meetings. Two groups meet in person; one meets online.
How can I find out more?
Email interim Director of Lifespan Religious Education at leahpurcell257@gmail.com.
How can I sign up?
Click the link below to register for the Covenant Group that you would like to join:
Click HERE to register for the Tuesday evening in person Covenant Group, facilitated by Gary Feinland. (Meets at UUSS from 7 – 8:30 pm on March 14, March 28, April 11, April 25, May 9).
Click HERE to register for the Thursday evening online Covenant Group, facilitated by Gabrielle Reals. (Meets online from 7 – 8:30 pm on March 9, March 23, April 6, April 20, May 4).
Click HERE to register for the Friday midday in person Covenant Group, facilitated by Peggy Schuth. (Meets at UUSS from 11 – 12:30 pm on March 3, March 17, March 31, April 14, April 28, May 12)