What is a Covenant Group?

A Covenant Group is a group of 6-8 people who meet under a set of mutually agreed-upon guidelines — a covenant. It offers an intimate setting for participants to get to know one another, share stories, explore spiritual ideas, discuss social concerns, and turn those ideas and concerns into action.

Who is eligible to participate?

All UUCA Members and Friends (as defined by the by-laws) are eligible to participate in a Covenant Group.

How often do Covenant Groups meet?

Covenant Groups meet at least once a month. Although the ideal is for groups to meet every 2 to 3 weeks, each group decides the frequency and location of its meetings. 

How are Covenant Groups formed?

The Covenant Group Coordinators are responsible for managing the logistics of the program.  Groups are formed each fall for the upcoming year.  Members interested in starting a new covenant group should discuss their proposal with the Covenant Group Coordinators.  Members and Friends enroll in Covenant Groups each fall and spring after considering the focus of the group as well as the day/time the group meets.  The Coordinators attempt to place individuals with a group that matches their interests and time availability.      

What is a typical Covenant Group meeting like?

Covenant Group meetings usually last two hours and are led by a trained facilitator. Meetings begin with a chalice-lighting and a check-in by participants. A reading related to the topic of the session is offered followed by a conversation about the topic. The meeting ends with a check-out, a closing reading, and extinguishing of the chalice.

How are topics chosen?

For the first several meetings, session plans are provided to help members bond, build trust, and foster a connection to each other and the larger church. Then, under the concept of shared leadership, group members are encouraged to create their own session plans either by using session plans provided by the Program Coordinators or by choosing and developing session plans that express their own topics of interest.

Examples of Covenant Groups

Click here to view examples of Covenant Groups.

What responsibilities are expected of you?

Group members are expected to attend all Covenant Group meetings except when out-of-town or in cases of personal emergency. Group members are encouraged to participate openly in discussions, listen actively when others speak, and abide by the group’s covenant. Group members are asked to commit to the group for at least one year.  

Goals of the Covenant Group program

· enhance participants’ spiritual journey

· enrich participants’ understanding of UU principles and values

· encourage service to the church and social action within the larger community

How do I enroll in a Covenant Group?
Groups add members and new groups are formed twice a year, fall and spring. Members and Friends interested in joining a Covenant Group should look for information in our newsletter or in Sandburg Hall.

For more information

Click here to send an email to covenantgroups@UUAsheville.org and you will be contacted.