Chalice Circles

We use Soul Matters Monthly Themes to guide our small group deep listening and learning groups.

Small Group Ministry is a vital part of Tree of Life congregational life. Groups of 10-12 people meet regularly, usually monthly, to reflect on and discuss significant life topics.

Small groups are great places to get to know other people and to get to know yourself. Over time, our participants build deep connections with one another, with the congregation, and with the sacred.

Whether the topic is “resilience,” “play,” “liberation,” or “wisdom,” the conversation is respectful and caring and leads to greater understanding. In each session, facilitated by a member of the congregation, all participants have opportunity to share their perspectives, tell their stories, and listen deeply. The time together is structured: Groups begin and end with centering readings and often include times for quiet reflection as well as sharing.  We have several groups meeting at various times. To learn more and join a group, click here.

Coffee with Questions

Sundays at 9am

An adult discussion forum on various topics with a moderator. Topics are communicated in the Happenings e-newsletter along with questions to consider ahead of the forum. No need to register or RSVP. Just drop in.

Faith Forward Spiritual Practice

Mondays at 4pm

Spiritual Practice is a 12-session series that helps participants develop regular disciplines of the spirit – practices that help us connect with the sacred. Spiritual Practice affirms religious diversity while seeking unity in our communal quest for meaning and wholeness. Each session offers a forum for learning, sharing, and growth that can enrich our personal faith journeys.  The following are the Spiritual Practice topics:

Defining Spiritual Practice,  Finding your Spiritual Practice,  Keeping Sabbath,  Prayer,  Meditation,  Mindful Walking and Eating,  Worship and Ritual,  Discernment and Devotional Reading,  Hospitality and Belonging,  Work and Service,  Retreat,  Life as Spiritual Practice.

Faith Forward Inquirers

Sundays 12:00pm

Visitors, newcomers, and new members are invited to participate in the Inquirers Series – the first step on our Faith Forward Path. The Inquirers Series meets after the worship service on Sunday mornings in the sanctuary. It is a series of 9 conversations that offer a general introduction to our congregation and Unitarian Universalism. The series is ongoing, so you are welcome to participate in the sessions in any order, as you’re able.

Faith Forward Roots

Roots is a brief introduction to Unitarian Universalist ideas and history, and is recommended for inquirers on our Faith Forward Path. It is offered quarterly on weeknights.

Faith Forward Beyond Inquirers

Have you completed the Inquirers Series? Are you seeking a way to deepen your learning and engagement with the congregation? Beyond Inquirers is a five-session series on the Faith Forward Path focused on the congregation and you – offering a deeper understanding of how the congregation works and how you can be part of it.  The following are the Beyond Inquirers topics:  What do UUs believe?,  Is this a new religion?,  How do we ‘do church’?,  How do we live our lives?,  Does it matter if I join?

Mindfulness

Tuesdays at 7:30pm and Thursdays at 1:30pm

At Tree of Life, our Mindfulness Practice uses a variety of ways to center our attention and develop increased awareness. Along with bringing attention to our senses, breath, and simple movements, we also explore different forms of contemplation. We practice in a meditative environment to enhance our focus, but the exercises are intended to be simple and useful enough to be incorporated into our daily living. There are many ways to make a journey, so the mixture of techniques is an opportunity to explore what works best for each individual’s preference for becoming centered, growing clarity, and uncovering inner resources. Contact M.E. Tanabe for more information m.e.tanabe@comcast.net

Poetry Group

1st Tuesday at 7pm

Poets unite! This group meets to encourage poetry by sharing originals or poetry that is inspiring us.

Women’s Circle

1st Fridays at 7:00pm

The Tree of Life Women’s Circle is awesome! The purpose of this group is to create an extension of our church family, to create authentic friendships, to laugh, support each other during difficult times and promote our spiritual growth. Our group is open to individuals from our church who are 21 or older who identify as women. Please join us, bring a friend and be prepared to be your authentic self, laugh and chill out. Our gatherings are laid back. Please bring food or drink to share if you like.