Adult Spiritual Development
Adult education at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Reston (UUCR) is directed by the Chair of the Adult Spiritual Development Committee. Members of the congregation and the ministers provide leadership for classes or discussion groups. We aim to provide programming across a wide spectrum of interests, including UU History and Theology, World Religions, Leadership Development, Spiritual Practices, Film and Book Discussions, and more. Hobby groups such as Knitters and Quilters provide opportunities for fellowship and charitable work at the same time.
The active leadership in Adult education by our Lay Ministers and several interested members of the congregation enables UUCR to offer a rich program through the church year. The classes are offered with an open mindset, encouraging the development of everyone involved.
Covenant Groups
Covenant groups play a vital role in the Unitarian Universalist Church in Reston. More than one third of our members belong to one of our nine on-going groups. When we were first introduced to the idea of covenant groups by our ministers back in 2001, it became clear that there was a need to be met, as thirty people stepped forward to participate. From the initial three groups, lay leaders emerged to establish more groups to accommodate additional members who wished to join in.
Each of our covenant groups sets its own agenda, and meetings are usually held in members’ homes. Most of the groups meet one evening a month. Three of our groups meet twice a month during the daytime. Some of our groups have been meeting over a period of many years, and new groups are occasionally formed as existing groups are reconstituted and as more people seek to become involved. Please contact Al Carlson if you are interested in joining a covenant group.
Lay Ministry
The Lay Ministers make up a group of members who have chosen to make a significant commitment of time and effort to serve UUCR in the ministry of their choice. Each Lay Minister has undergone extensive training by the UUCR minister(s) in all areas of ministry, including worship, pastoral care, social justice, leadership, and religious education. See the Lay Ministry page for more information.
Starting Point: Introduction to the UU Journey
Unitarian Universalism invites people into a different way of being in the world rather than trying to convince them to “think rightly” about the world. But what is that “different way of being”? That’s what “Starting Point” is designed to answer. If you are a new member or have just discovered UUCR, or if you’ve been a member for a while and are looking to reconnect with your UUism, this class is for you! It will help you become more connected to other members and find your place here at UUCR. Our minister, Rev. Erin Gingrich, facilitates.
Music Making
Music is one of the ministries of UUCR. Many people experience the holy through music, either through performing or listening. Music plays a large role in Sunday morning worship. However, members of our performing groups also find spiritual fulfillment and fellowship through their participation in these groups. There are many ways to become involved in the Music Ministry at UUCR. Please visit the Music Ministry page for details.
Mindfulness Meditation
This class uses resources from various meditation teachers of mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness brings deepened awareness of mind and body. Over time, meditation can release stressful and often unconscious habitual ways of being. In addition, practicing mindful meditation brings compassion for one's self and for others. Each week, we do sitting meditation, read about mindfulness, engage in mindful sharing, and share a social hour. The class is held every Tuesday and is open to newcomers as space is available. Please contact Martha Patterson for additional information.
Rise Up and Call Her Name
The class meets on the first Saturday of each month to explore the history of female goddesses and divinities in a variety of cultures. This woman-honoring journey has something for everyone: explore stories, legends, and folklore from various cultures; enjoy music, dance, and craft-making; and embark on a journey of personal spiritual development. Our downloadable flyer will show you some of the stops the group will make during its cultural “journey.” If you think you might be interested in exploring ancestral women’s rich and unique experiences, contact one of the co-facilitators – Dawn or Ana – for more information.
Sunshine Knitting Group
The UUCR Knitting as Meditation Group meets weekly to enjoy knitting together and creating Sunshine Blankets for others. Our Sunshine Knitters include Jan Altemus, Jane Anthony, Al & Dot Chambers, Eddi Carlson, Karen DuChene, Kiernan DuChene, Dorothy Fisher, Linda Holloway, Mary Kloman, Mary Ellen Mogee, Nicky Moering, Elaine Schwartz, Anne Thomas, Becky Trachtman, and Connie Zink. Please contact Dot Chambers if you are interested in participating or joining.
Wild Woods Spirit Circle
Reflecting the sixth source of Unitarian Universalism, the Wild Woods Spirit Circle experience is at once celebratory and meditative, drawing from a multiplicity of mythological traditions and the natural rhythms of nature. Each month, we meet for a seasonally-themed ritual that is focused on healing and expresses reverence for the sacred circle of life. Information about monthly rituals is published in the newsletter and announcements. Please send an email to wwsc@e271.net for more information.