Since we began considering Small Group Ministry in 1997 to the present, we refer to the ‘elements’ of our Small Group Ministry.  Today at UUCC we are talking about ‘building blocks’ or core pieces that hold our community structure. And then comes the question, could ‘elements’ be the ‘building blocks’ to enhance Small Group Ministry and the UUCC community as we move into the future?

 A building block is a separate part that combines with another to create something else; it does not work on its own. The strength of a building block enhances the effectiveness of other building blocks. We have been considering these twelve such building blocks as we prepared for the December 11, 2022,Sunday Service, "Building Blocks for UUCC".

SMALL GROUP MINISTRY BUILDING BLOCKS

"Small" By interacting with fewer people we can be more intentional about our sharing, learn more about struggles and successes of others and discover shared strengths. A consistent group of fewer people allows us to establish trust and to be more comfortable in interactions. In a smaller group it is easier to introduce new members and to relate to changes and losses.

"Group" Meeting once or twice a month over several months or years helps us connect newcomers to the church community and celebrate life’s milestones. Diversity such as age, gender and sexual orientation, background, experience, spiritual orientation, and abilities broadens the group experience. We determine our meeting arrangements, session plans, service, and special activities

"Ministry" We are part of the shared ministry at UUCC. "Ministry" is caring or being present with another. This relates to the spiritual, the physical and the emotional well-being. We can call on other group members for help and support. We also give support to each other and the group as a whole. We connect with the minister and Pastoral Ministry Team.

Bonding (Intimacy) We feel a sense of belonging when someone responds to us as individuals.

Friendship is getting to know each other intimately. Community is where deepest hopes, fears, dreams and even bad experiences can be shared amongst nonjudgmental friends. Doing things together unifies our group beyond just talking and brings compassion and caring.

Going Deeper (Ultimacy) We explore topics of life. Opportunity to delve into issues where we know each other over time leads to deeper and diverse meaning. The focus is shared learning on how we are affected by a topic. Session plans present life topics in a way that encourages new insights. They are selected and created by individuals and groups. We read, sing, laugh, share, and constantly question.

Growth There is a chance to see what is of concern, what’s going on in the world, how we think about things and what we might do.  We challenge ourselves. We participate, may lead sessions, represent our group in SGM joint meetings, develop skills and confidence within and beyond the group. Growth occurs when we feel supported.

Covenant The expression of Covenant is based on shared values, the center of which is Love. We are accountable to one another for living our shared values within our group and community. What we value determines how we act and interact.  Small Group Ministry is where everyone knows your name and your story and keeps it within the circle!

Listening We listen to others and learn and share from our souls. We do not need to comment nor expect others to comment on our sharing. As we listen to learn what another person has to offer, we try to speak so that others can understand what we are conveying. Listening is understanding beyond hearing the words. Listening does not require agreement and can leave opportunity to differ.  

Service We work on concerns that affect the church and larger communities. Joint activities are a way to learn about each other’s interests, increase the connection with the congregation, and give from the abundance of our group. Our service supports the congregational functions (buildings and grounds, meals and hospitality, programs). and enhances connection with the wider UU world as faith in action.

Accessibility We consider and respect the needs of each member -- mobility, sensory concerns, allergies, time commitments, economics, etc. We are concerned about who is or can be included. Who may not be able to participate or may not be comfortable in a group or mentioning a concern? What assistance is needed for participation or alternatives? We are encouraged to share our needs so that we may participate.

Communications We talk about Small Group Ministry –our own groups, interaction among groups and the UUCC community. We add notices and articles by SGM participants in the E-Blast, newsletters, announcements, and the UUCC and UUSGM Network websites. We try to let everyone in our group know and be involved with suggestions and plans and how we can participate.

Presence SGM has used ways of doing church, such as chalice lighting and personal check-in at group meetings and working with more people in differing capacities throughout the congregation.  SGM offers some specific programs and Sunday Services annually. SGM is, by its nature, intimate, starting with check-ins and transitioning to the chosen session plan.

 

Covenant section rev. 5.7.2023