Soul Matters Sharing Circles
These meet once a month for two hours. Group size is generally 6-9 participants. Soul Matters offers a distinctive small group curriculum. Like other small group programs, its central goal is to foster circles of trust and deep listening. However, Soul Matters adds unique components:
A Journey that the Whole Church Takes Together
Soul Matters small groups are not a stand-alone program. They are designed as a companion program to our congregation’s worship and religious education ministries. These groups offer an opportunity to explore our congregation’s monthly worship
themes in more depth.
Experience the Theme, Don’t Just Analyze It
We know that spiritual development requires more than analysis of a topic. There is a deep hunger in all of us for experiential engagement. Honoring this, the Soul Matters sharing circles use spiritual exercises found in each small group packet. For instance, when we wrestled with the concept of grace, our small groups didn’t just read what theologians had to say about it, they were also invited to find a way to bring grace into another person’s life.
Questions to Walk with, not Talk Through
In traditional small groups, questions are an opportunity for the group to think together, going through each question one by one. Soul Matters engages reflection questions differently. We see them as tools for individual exploration and spiritual
discernment.
A Reminder that UUism is Distinctive, not an “Anything Goes,” Religion
Our monthly themes focus on a spiritual value that our UU faith has historically honored and calls all of us to embody in our lives. At each small group meeting, participants are reminded that our faith promotes a preferred way for us to be in the world.
UU Writers
Engages the monthly Soul Matters theme through creative writing. Offered twice a month on Thursdays, two sessions – one daytime and one nighttime. Using whatever writing practice you are most comfortable with (journaling, poetry, prose, storytelling), participants share, and support others. Deep listening techniques create a safe environment of self-discovery.
Led by Sari Bodi and Elizabeth MacDonald.
Creativity Matters
Will explore the monthly Soul Matters themes of spiritual growth through creative expression beginning in January 2022. Led by Janet Luongo (Creativity Matters).
Check our website uuwestport.org and SOUNDINGS for times, dates, and additional information on UU Writers and Creativity Matters.
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