Our covenant groups are a part of the “Small Group Ministry,” one of the great grassroots movements in UUism today. It is helping us live out our individual spiritual journeys in ways that not only support but enhance our sense of community. “I believe that your time spent with this ministry can pay handsome rewards,” says William Sinkford, former UUA President.

Our Covenant Groups are relationship groups designed to build -- in the midst of our growing, diverse membership -- centers of trust and friendship that remain closely connected to our church community. In other words, we get to know each other -- really know each other.

Our groups consist of a facilitator and co-facilitator, with up to 12 people, that meet once a month. We always keep at least one chair empty to symbolize those not yet reached who need us and to suggest the expectation that a new group will be “born from” this group when membership exceeds 12.

Our format is to have a chalice lighting followed by an opening reading. There is then a check-in period during which time each person is asked to briefly state, if they so choose, what is going on in their life. This is followed by a discussion of a particular topic, usually punctuated with a series of questions. The focus is more on sharing than on debating. Then there is a very quick check-out, a closing reading, and finally the extinguishing of the chalice.

We invite everyone -- member, friend, or visitor -- to join one of our groups.

Documents

Date	Document	Download
08/12/2009	UU St. Pete Organizational Chart	2009-08-12-uu-st-pete-organizational-chart.pdf