Small Group Ministry

Join a Small Group Ministry Group at UUCR

Whether you are new to UUCR or have been around for awhile, you are welcome to join us.

The purpose of Small Group Ministry is:

• Community Building and Friendship
• Spiritual Growth and Search for Meaning
• A place for everyone

A small group consists of 8-10 people who gather once or twice a month to explore religious, spiritual and ethical issues. A trained facilitator provides guidance. This program was initiated in 2002 by our lay minister, Virginia LaMarche. Fran Lowe and Celia Young coordinate the program. Reverend Lynn Strauss trains the facilitators, meets with them regularly, and guides the program.

How does it work?

Congregation members are invited to sign up for the program and are then assigned to a group based on such considerations as geographic location and availability. The groups meet at a frequency they determine, usually once or twice a month.

Each group is led by a trained facilitator and makes rules for how its members will relate and talk to each other. The members covenant with each other to abide by those rules.

The group meetings follow an established pattern. They start with a short reading. Next comes “check-in”, a period when members share what is on their minds or what has happened in their lives recently. Then comes the discussion period. The discussion is concluded with a positive format for feedback (called “likes and wishes”) and some closing words. Groups may spend as many meetings as they like on a topic.

Why should I join?

Small group ministry programs answer the need many people feel for creating community ties and for spiritual challenge and growth. For newcomers they offer a way to become a part of the congregation, to gain a sense of belonging. For long-time church members they create new ways to relate to each other, to care for each other, to talk to and listen to each other.

What do we discuss?

This is probably the question most frequently asked about Small Group Ministry. Here is a list of topics some of our groups have used:

Are you seeking . . .

• A circle of caring friends?
• Stimulating discussions?
• Nourishment for your spirit?

Would you like . . .

• A safe place to share your life story?
• To be heard with respect and in confidence?
• To talk about things that really matter?
• To belong to a small group of friends who minister to each other through caring and support?
• To search for spiritual growth by exploring deeper spritual questions?

How do I learn more?

For more information, contact Fran Lowe. Or you can join SGM by completing the electronic form below.