WHAT IS A SPIRITUAL SUPPORT GROUP?
A spiritual support group is flexible; each one is unique depending on the needs and interests of its participants. Here is a general description of spiritual support (spiritual companions) groups, written by Nancy Bieber and excerpted (p. 65) from Companions Along the Way (a Quaker adult ed curriculum in our library). There is one ongoing Spiritual Support Group at OPFM; please see Helen if you are interesting in learning more or in setting up a second group.
"The purpose of a spiritual companions group is to provide support and encouragement for each other on our spiritual journeys. Rather than focusing on the discussion of ideas, our focus is on sharing our own stories. Because this is a riskier sharing than the discussion of ideas, such groups need to be structured carefully and have specific guidelines to follow.
"What happens in a group may vary somewhat, but the most important part is allowing each member a time to talk, a time to be the focus person when others simply sit and listen. This is followed by a period of reflective, thoughtful silence out of which arise responses from the other group members.
"Membership in such a group is a commitment. Members commit themselves to be present for each session. Dates for meetings should be rearranged when necessary so that everyone can be present. A willingness to speak out about one's own life and a desire to grow closer to God are also part of the group's commitment to each other. Praying for each other is important. A commitment to confidentiality is essential in order for trust to build.
"What else happens in the group will vary depending on the group itself. Sometimes the group focuses on a theme suggested by the facilitator. Some groups spend time sitting in silence. Some write together on a subject and speak out of their journaling experiences. Groups may develop a ritual of welcoming or of community celebration."
A spiritual support group is flexible; each one is unique depending on the needs and interests of its participants. Here is a general description of spiritual support (spiritual companions) groups, written by Nancy Bieber and excerpted (p. 65) from Companions Along the Way (a Quaker adult ed curriculum in our library). There is one ongoing Spiritual Support Group at OPFM; please see Helen if you are interesting in learning more or in setting up a second group.
"The purpose of a spiritual companions group is to provide support and encouragement for each other on our spiritual journeys. Rather than focusing on the discussion of ideas, our focus is on sharing our own stories. Because this is a riskier sharing than the discussion of ideas, such groups need to be structured carefully and have specific guidelines to follow.
"What happens in a group may vary somewhat, but the most important part is allowing each member a time to talk, a time to be the focus person when others simply sit and listen. This is followed by a period of reflective, thoughtful silence out of which arise responses from the other group members.
"Membership in such a group is a commitment. Members commit themselves to be present for each session. Dates for meetings should be rearranged when necessary so that everyone can be present. A willingness to speak out about one's own life and a desire to grow closer to God are also part of the group's commitment to each other. Praying for each other is important. A commitment to confidentiality is essential in order for trust to build.
"What else happens in the group will vary depending on the group itself. Sometimes the group focuses on a theme suggested by the facilitator. Some groups spend time sitting in silence. Some write together on a subject and speak out of their journaling experiences. Groups may develop a ritual of welcoming or of community celebration."
