"Chalice Circles" is the name we have given to the small group ministry component of our congregation. A chalice circle is led by one or two facilitators, who are trained and supported by the minister and the chalice circle leadership team, and who meet monthly for support and on-going training and building community.

A chalice circle is a group of 5-12 individuals who meet on a regular basis (at least twice a month) to be in community while sharing their thoughts in an area of common interest. Each gathering begins with a chalice lighting, an inspirational reading, and a check-in by each person attending. Then, participants focus on the topic of the chalice circle for an hour or so. The gathering closes with a check-out and a closing reading. The members of each circle create a covenant (a set of promises) stating how they will relate to one another during their gatherings; this covenant is the major ingredient for building a safe place for community.

Each chalice circle selects a service project - for the church community or for the community at large - to complete each year.

All chalice circles, listed at the end of this page, are open to members and friends of First UU Church. The Chalice Circle brochure (a PDF document) provides descriptions, meeting dates and times, and faciliators' names and contact information.

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Common Threads Sunday - Meets 1st and 3rd Sundays, 1:00 p.m.; contact Cathy Barnett

Common Threads Wednesday - Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m.; contact Elizabeth Long or Peggy Harvey

Dreams Chalice Circle - Meets 2nd and 4th Sundays, 1:00 p.m.,contact Cathy Barnett

Elders and Sages - Meets 1st and 3rd Fridays, 1:00 p.m; contact the church

Good to the Last Drop - Meets 1st and 3rd Thursdays, 11: 30 a.m., contact Cindy Walker or Mary Jane Hurlbert

Rhythm of Life- Meets 1st and 3rd Mondays, 7:00 p.m., contact Mike and Cindy Hart

Spirituality and Nature - Meets 1st Saturdays, 9:00 AM, location varies. Contact Tom Cowen or Pat Kimbrell