Chalice Groups
The Chalice Groups program of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent is a welcoming resource open to any adult member or friend of the church. Different congregations call small group ministries by different names–covenant groups, chalice circles, or engagement groups (in England)–but the different names refer to a common ground of experience: sacred time with an on-going, small group of people.
The time spent together is devoted not only to discussion, but much more. The primary emphasis of Chalice Groups are to care for people through talking and listening—to serve them, encourage them to spiritual growth, and meet their needs for affirmation and acceptance. By creating an open, supportive, and nurturing environment, Chalice Groups promote and facilitate spiritual growth and mutual interactive care for one another. The program offers a wonderful opportunity to get to know individuals on a deeper level and may help participants understand themselves better through the use of stimulating topics of discussion.
These small groups meet approximately every three weeks from October through spring. The groups of approximately 8 individuals meet in a member’s home, at the church or other agreed upon comfortable, quiet setting. All groups have trained facilitators, use a regular format, covenant together how they will relate to each other and how they will chose a small project to serve the congregation or community. Groups choose their themes for discussion from a menu of meaningful topics. Handouts with readings and discussion questions are provided by the facilitator at each session.
The format of each session provides time for a brief shared silence, listening to readings, speaking personal opinions without any response from others, and closes with time for an exchange of opinions in a gentle, supportive manner. The two hours spent with the Chalice Groups group provides a respite from the demands of daily life and encourages participants to be present in meaningful thought and discussion on a level that is more intimate than typical conversations.
Details about the program, comments from past participants and enrollment forms can be found in the Chalice Groups brochure below and on the literature table just inside the church main entrance. To speak to someone about the Chalice Groups program, contact a member of the SGM Steering Committee – Reverend Melissa Carvill-Zeimer, Christie Anderson, Elaine Bowen, or Chris Hurlbut. The church office can provide contact information for reaching any of these individuals.
Download – Chalice Groups Brochure (Right-click the link and choose “Save Link As…” to save the document to your computer)