Some Basic Information

What happens in a Chalice Circle? - 6 to 9 people gather to share their thoughts, feelings, and experience, in order to learn from, learn with, nurture and support one another. Topics include religious histories, personal beliefs and practices, the big questions of life, families, holidays, love, fear, joy, loss, etc.--the list is endless. Groups may choose their own order, direction and pace. A ususal group meeting looks like this:

Opening words - for gathering and focusing on our intention. Some groups will light a chalice as well.
Check-In - Participants share news of what has been happening in their lives. Each group develops its own customs about length of time or how to respond. Sharing time may vary.
Topic/Discussion - A paragraph or two lays out a topic and presents questions that will elicit thoughtful discussion and significant reflection. A group may stay with a topic for several weeks, or be done with it in one meeting.
Reflections on the Process - This is a positive format for feedback on the work of the group.
Closing Words - This brings the formal session to an end. Groups are encouraged to begin and end on time.

Where do the groups meet? - Each group decides whether to meet primarily in members homes or at the church. Some groups alternate locations.

How long do meetings last? - Sessions are designed to be two hours long, however, each group can make its own determination of the length of their sessions.

How often do groups meet? - Each group develops its own schedule. The most common pattern is to meet twice a month. Groups tend to meet less often during summer and over the holidays.

What is expected of a Chalice Circle participant? - Participants are expected to bring a positive attitude, a willingness to share and learn. (However, this is never a "share or die" event.) We are also expected to give the agreed upon meetings a high priority. While no one can make every meeting, members make every effort to attend.

What does the facilitator do? - The facilitator guides the life of the group. He or she makes sure the session begins and ends on time, or delegates someone else to do so. He or she reminds peoples of the next meeting and contacts members who miss a meeting, or delegate someone to do so. During the session, the facilitator reads the opening words, readings, and closing words, and guides the discussion as necessary. Facilitators meet once each month with the minister, to help keep grounds connected to the life of the church.

Who will know what I say? - There is an expectation of confidentiality within groups. Agreements about the nature of confidentiality will be reviewed by and agreed upon within each group from time to time. When there are significant Pastoral concerns, however, a facilitator may ask if they can share that concern with the minister.

Are Chalice Circles therapy? - No. While participants in other churches often report feeling better connected and happier in their lives, these groups are not designed to provide therapy. Professional therapy is readily available in our community: Chalice Cirlces offer connection, reflection, community, and spiritual growth.

How does the idea of service fit in? - We hope that every group over time will take on some kind of service in the church or the community. Service beyond the group is important for two reasons: First, it helps to offset the natural tendency of small intimate groups to become self-absorbed and disconnected, and second, because a necessary aspect of a maturing religious or spiritual life is service.

How long will I be in a Chalice Circle? - The commitment to a group is open-ended. Each group can agree to a certain length of time for initial commitment. For reasons of their own, members may leave groups from time to time. Newcomers may also join a group, if there is an opening, and new groups can be created at any time. We expect to have an annual reassignment of groups.