Engaging Our Theological Diversity
Rev. Amy Bowden Freedman
Date:___________________
Small Group Ministry 
Group Session Plan

Opening Words:	
We are here to be together,
to celebrate our desire for community,
to grow in respect for self in others.
Through our direct speaking and attentive listening,
our circle of caring expands.  
							-Barbara Hamilton-Holway
Check-in

Topic:  
The Commission on Appraisal of the UUA published a report in 2005 entitled “Engaging Our Theological Diversity”.  The following comes from that report:
While the root of the words of the term theology refer to “reason or discourse about God,” these questions assume a much broader understanding of its meaning.  In modern usage, the definition of theology is understood to include the full range of religious and philosophical beliefs (not just theistic ones) and humans’ understanding of the meaning and purpose of life and of Ultimate Reality.

•	What do you think holds this congregation together?  What do the members share or have in common that makes it a community?
•	Imagine you are filling out a form that asks this question: “What five words would you use to describe your personal religious beliefs?”

Sharing/ Deep Listening
Conversation
Likes & Wishes
Closing Words: 
To you each, my friends, 
I give thanks for the company;
We have shared the inner light:
May that light go forth with thee.
May we give each other power—
Live with courage every hour.	-Peter Galbraith