Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto

Chalice Circles

Why Chalice Circles?

What is a Chalice Circle?

Chalice Circles are small groups that meet regularly to deepen their relationships with each other and to grow spiritually. Chalice circles provide an open and supportive environment in which the inherent worth and dignity of each community member is respected, one that specifically promotes making connections and developing friendships within our congregation, and supports spiritual growth and the search for truth and meaning.

A Chalice Circle consists of 6-10 members formed from members and friends of UUCPA. Each group is led by a trained facilitator and an assistant facilitator, overseen by the minister. Facilitators participate in monthly meetings led by the planning committee and the minister for ongoing support, skill building, and problem solving. Each group meets twice a month for about two hours. If the facilitator is available and the group unanimously agrees, the group can meet more often.

Chalice Circles meet October through early June. Individual groups can choose to meet in July and August as well. We also expect to open registration in January to add members to existing groups or start new ones. Each Circle will disband at the end of the year. In the fall registration will open again and new Circles will form. In this way, over the course of several years, participants will develop deeper relationships across the congregation and not just with the same 10 people.

At each gathering, members share with each other what is going on in their lives, and discuss a topic of spiritual or personal importance chosen for that evening. For the first several meetings, the topics will be given to the group. Afterwards, the group will select subjects based on their interests. Resources are available here and on the internet for a variety of topics.

How do I get involved?

The 2011-2012 Chalice Circles are underway, but a new group will be started as soon as there are enough participants who can meet together.

If you are interested in joining a UUCPA Chalice Circle, please fill out this registration form and return it to the UUCPA office, or speak to Rev. Amy Zucker Morgenstern or Susan Plass.