Chalice Circles

MISSION

To create a revered and intimate space that supports spiritual and personal growth, fellowship among Chalice Circle members, and enhanced relationships with members of the church and larger community.

WHAT ARE CHALICE CIRCLES?

A Chalice Circle is a small group of people who commit to meeting regularly with a trained facilitator to discuss topics of spiritual and personal significance.  A trained facilitator and co-facilitator provide structure.  Chalice Circles meet once or twice a month, at church or in members’ homes.  Members establish a covenant for maintaining positive and respectful relationships with one another.

WHAT HAPPENS AT A CHALICE CIRCLE?

Each meeting begins with a chalice lighting, opening words, sounding of the gong, and silence for reflection.  During “check-in,” members are invited to share how they are feeling about life in recent days.  Then they discuss the day’s topic, chosen from First Church’s list of more than 150 subjects, such as spirituality, love, living and dying, forgiveness, community, and many others.  The gathering concludes with a “check-out” and closing words.

WHY JOIN A CHALICE CIRCLE?

Belonging to a Chalice Circle offers an opportunity to develop greater intimacy with other church members and a stronger sense of connection to the larger church community.  Members grow personally and spiritually through exploring their beliefs and feelings about chosen topics, and listening deeply to others.

LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

To continue growing, the Chalice Circle program needs more facilitators.  Training is provided.  Facilitators meet regularly with a coach to continue their growth as leaders.  Previous small group leadership experience is not necessary.  Facilitators do need good “people skills,” personal maturity, and curiosity about other people’s experience and beliefs.

JOIN A CHALICE CIRCLE

Chalice Circles are open to First Church members and pledging friends.  For more information and to join a circle, please contact kathy [dot] porteruumilwaukee [dot] org (subject: Chalice%20Circles%20inquiry) (Kathy Porter), Director of Membership and Development.