Congregational Life Centre
Our mission is to help leaders acquire
the skills and attitudes they need to lead
The Power of a Circle
"I had the staff sit in a circle to work out their problems."
"The interested participants met in a circle and came to an agreement
about the future."
"I made connections in a circle with others who shared my concerns."
Using the word power to describe the impact of meeting in a circle where everyone is equal feels a little strange, but by moving away from our normal hierarchical way of being we can find new ways to be together. That means we can see with new eyes and new perspectives.
Introverts are much more likely to share if you give them an opportunity to be with fewer people. New ideas can be openly explored when people feel they will be heard. Relationships can deepen when we have the opportunity to share our stories. All of these dynamics can be the result of meeting together as a circle or small group.
A circle is not just a re-arranging of the chairs; it is an intentional way of coming together. It is important to have a centre - symbols that represent why the group is gathered. The "rim" or circle of confidentiality has to be clear, and the time together has to have purpose.
We use the RooTS acronym to describe what we believe make circles in the church Christian. "R" is for Relationships, the "oo" is for Outward Orientation, the "T" for the Task that the group is meeting to complete, and the "S" is for Spirituality. As we come together as Christians with God at our centre and build relationships with one another, the work we do must be focused outside of ourselves. That doesn't just happen, it requires intention.
If you are looking to find a way to introduce new passion and energy into the life of your congregation or community, we invite you to consider developing a circle or small group ministry.
Circles of Christian Community
August 2011
Athabasca Woods, Athabasca, Alberta
Exploring how to initiate and support small groups as creative places in
your congregation for
Centering
Community
Enrichment
Learning
Growth
Spirituality
Support
August 8-12, 2011
Beginning 2 p.m. Monday Aug. 8, and closing 2 p.m. Friday Aug. 12.
Go to our web site or phone for more information.
Leadership Circles
Are you planning a learning experience next fall? Consider participating in a Leadership Circle. Given the rate at which society and the church is changing, the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson ring true: "Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
A circle normally meets monthly. If you are interested in a learning adventure, contact us at the Congregational Life Centre.
"Leadership Ventures" Congregational Life Newsletter. March 2011. Volume 17 No. 4.