Chalice Circles

Chalice Circle Topics, Links, and Resources

 What are Chalice Circles?
Chalice Circles are small groups whose members meet regularly to deepen their relationships with each other and to grow spiritually. The goal of a Chalice Circle is to provide a safe place where people can talk about what is most important to them and get to know each other in meaningful ways. Chalice Circles create opportunities for sharing, learning, and connecting. As our church grows, Chalice Circles can offer people caring, affirmative networks. Other churches might refer to these groups as Small Group Ministries or Covenant Groups.

When and how do Chalice Circles meet?
Some groups meet at the church, but most Chalice Circles meet in members' homes on a rotating basis. The group will decide the frequency of the meetings. They might meet every 2 weeks, every 3 weeks, or once a month.

What will happen during a Chalice Circle meeting?
Each Chalice Circle meeting will begin with a reading or meditation, a chalice lighting, and a check-in that allows people to say briefly what is going on in their lives. Then a topic may be discussed. Each Chalice Circle meeting will close with a brief checkout and another reading. The group may determine its own format for what happens between these two "bookends." A facilitator coordinates the group and ensures that everyone has a chance to participate.

When may I join a Chalice Circle?
We do not require church membership in order to join a Chalice Circle. However, we have found that newcomers are more prepared to join a Chalice Circle after they have attended the church for a while and taken part in the series Exploring Unitarian Universalism.  Chalice Circles connect people on a deeper level and require a commitment from each person. The participants must feel comfortable with and be able to trust each other, so it helps when they have a sense of who the others are.  So we ask that you complete the Exploring Unitarian Universalism series before we place you in a Chalice Circle. 

How do I join a Chalice Circle?
If you're interested in joining, or simply want more information, please call the office and speak with the Membership Director, Rose Riccio. We will place you in an ongoing Chalice Circle or a new group, depending on your availability and number of openings in current groups. We try to place you into a group as quickly as possible; there are times, however, when we are waiting to train new facilitators or create new groups that are not yet fully formed.