What is the Soul Matters small groups?
Soul Matters is a theme-based ministry program that includes all aspects of congregational life – from worship services to children and adult religious education, to individual spiritual practice. Using a shared theme creates an opportunity for the whole congregation to journey together.
Our Soul Matters small groups will draw from these same themes to build community and connection during these challenging times. Many of us long for opportunities for deeper connections and reflection. The groups will provide a welcoming structure to build connections and our explore values.
Who can join a group?
Any member, friend, or newcomer to UUSS is welcome to participate in a group. Once the groups form in September, they will be closed to new participants until January when new participants will be welcome to join groups that have space.
When do the groups start?
Soul Matters small groups will start the fourth week of September and continue through the last week of May. Groups will meet only once in December, in the second week. There will not be any group meetings in the fourth week of December.
When and where do the groups meet?
There are groups offered at various times of day and days of the week, both in person or on Zoom. The options are listed on the registration form.
Who leads the groups?
Each small group will have a trained facilitator(s) who will meet monthly with Rev Lucy. Group members may have the opportunity to share facilitation duties at various times during the year.
What happens at the group meetings?
Each session will include individual check-in, reflection on the monthly theme, shared readings or videos and time for individual sharing and group discussion. Each group will share a covenant reflecting commitments and practices for being together with love and respect. Each group will practice respectful listening and discussion so that all can participate fairly and freely.
What is expected of group participants?
Each participant is asked to respect the group’s covenant. Participants are asked to make the group meetings a high priority in their lives and notify the group facilitator(s) when they are unable to attend. Every participant is expected to share with honesty, listen with respect and agree to hold any personal information shared in strictest confidence.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up on Sunday after church August 10 – August 31. You can also sign up online right here. The last day you can sign up online is Tuesday, September 2.