Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UUCF covenant group?
Eight to ten people who agree to meet regularly for a year to think, talk, and reflect about topics of religious consequence. Some groups choose to develop a service project.
What topics does a covenant group discuss?
Groups agree to explore subjects that deepen their religious experience and enhance their spiritual lives. Theme readings or agreed-upon topics focus the discussion. Groups will find a number of resources and session plans available to provide readings and guidelines for discussion of a variety of potential topics.
Why join a covenant group?
To deepen your religious and spiritual understanding; to have a safe forum for your spiritual questions; to build and strengthen connections to your self and to others in the congregation; to build a healthier and closer church community.
What is the group covenant (solemn promise)?
Group members agree:
To participate: To be prepared and be on time; to attend Sunday worship services regularly; to attend group meetings regularly, to consider developing a service project, and to help form new groups at the end of the year.
To show respect: In their speech; in their silence; in honoring the space, privacy, and confidence of each other; and in honoring their own experiences.
To be open: To new insights, to deepening their faith, and to trusting the process.
Who leads the group?
Covenant group leaders are group members trained and supported by our ministers and/or Covenant Group Steering Committee to facilitate discussions. A covenant group steering committee provides support and resources to the groups.
Is there a set format for group meetings?
To create a safe and sacred space, meetings last about two hours and begin with a reading and chalice lighting. Group members “check-in,” and then discuss a theme or short reading. After closing words, participants “check-out” or comment briefly on the experience.
How to join a covenant group:
There is an active Covenant Group sign-up time each year in the fall. At other times, contact Rev. rsavage
uucf [dot] org (Russ Savage), 703-281-4230, to learn what groups might be open.
Covenant Group Steering Committee:
Nancy Turaj, Sara Groark, and Rev. Russ Savage.
