A Unitarian Universalist Spiritual Practice

A mutual ministry based on sharing our life experiences and lived wisdom is a spiritual practice that is uniquely Unitarian Universalist. We bear witness to each other’s worth and dignity.

Soul Matters

Recognizing the Unitarian Universalist call to minister to each other and to the world, this group provides a unique opportunity to engage in the spiritual practice of deep listening. In joining this group, you can expect to gather each month with 5-8 Unitarian Universalists to explore our church’s monthly theme through an at-home packet of spiritual readings, videos, music, and soul-searching questions.

Why Join a Soul Matters group?

• Participate in a supportive, nurturing group setting that facilitates spiritual growth and mutual caring.
• Grow at your own pace and in your own way through authentic speaking, deep listening, reflecting, and serving.
• Explore your own values by articulating them in a supportive setting.
• Develop friendships with interesting people you might otherwise never get to know.

The format of the meetings helps participants set aside daily distractions, reflect on their lives and beliefs, and make meaningful connections with one another. Through sharing their wisdom, members leave each meeting with a deeper understanding of themselves and of each other. Each Soul Matters group becomes a small, personal community of listening and caring in the midst of a large congregation. The intimacy of these spiritual groups enriches the participants’ lives with greater depth of meaning. 

Small Group Ministry generally runs from September through June. While it is nice to start in a group at the beginning, you may join at any time! 

There is no cost to join, and you do not have to be a member of the church to participate. Soul Matters groups most often take place at the church or online on Zoom, but we also encourage facilitators to run groups out of their homes whenever possible.

What a Soul Matters group is intended to be:

• A way to deepen our spirituality through a shared practice.
• A way to share our thoughts on life’s big questions.
• A way to connect across age, gender, ethnic, economic and other differences.
• A way to be engaged, included, and heard in a safe, nurturing environment.
• A way to bring together the newer and the longtime members in our community.
• A way to deepen our practice of shared UU principles.
• A way to practice service from within a small community.
• A way to develop our connections with the rest of the congregation.

What a Soul Matters group is NOT intended to be:

• A social club, although ties between church members deepen through this program 
• A debate society, although many important topics are discussed.
• A support or therapy group, although the atmosphere is positive.
• A worship service, although the meetings and topics have a strong spiritual tone.
• A rigid template of activities, although there are general guidelines to follow.
• A closed club, although groups must be limited in size to be effective.

Curious?  Contact Elaine Vogelstein (Lainey) for more information at mlainey1@gmail.com.