LIFELONG LEARNING
We believe that the spiritual journey is a lifelong process. Throughout our years we continue to explore deep questions, to struggle with ethical challenges, and to grow in wisdom, compassion, generosity, and faith. The answers of our youth may no longer serve us in our mature years. The challenges of our contemporary society are ever new and changing. Boundaries of knowledge and of inspiration are ever expanding.
We continue to grow by drawing on the wisdom of the ages, the inner spark of our own spirit, and thoughtful conversation with others.
PROGRAMS for ADULTS
As Unitarian Universalists, members of the congregation are committed to seeing themselves and their peers as lifelong learners and we strive to facilitate this through a number of recurring programs throughout the year. All are welcome! Use the contact links in the descriptions or contact the church with questions or for more information.
Also, visit our Calendar page for a list of non-recurring programs and events offered each week!
Tai Chi
Tai Chi
“Taiji can give you the strength of a lumberjack, the pliability of a child, and the peace of mind of a sage.”
– Asian proverb
Engage in a practice of joy, calm, and empowerment by taking our Tai Chi classes at UUCGL! Some of the benefits:
• promotes relaxation and good health
• improves balance and flexibility
• relieves stress and fatigue
• strengthens body and mind
Rosie Tan Segil, is a Wudang certified teacher with more than 8 years of practice experience. She teaches in the Daoist Gate tradition of Tai Chi (also written “Taiji”) and Qigong. Her tradition is a very gentle form on the body, known for its health benefits, and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities. The style she teaches was developed in the Wudang Mountains of China and taught to her by Daoist monk Zhou Shifu.
Winter classes are full, but registration is now OPEN for spring classes, running April-June!
Craft Group
1st & 3rd Sat. of each month
10am-2pm
Saturday Craft Group
This is part a new venture and part our hosting a long-standing group that started at First Universalist Society of Salem over 20 years ago and continued at First Church in Beverly.
It will be held the first and third Saturdays of each month from 10am to 2pm (you may drop in at any time). All sorts of crafts are welcome. In the past we have had folks who knit, crochet, weave, bead, etc. People can bring their sewing machines (having an extension cord is recommended). Feel free to bring a packed lunch. For further details, please contact Rebecca Greene.
Drum Circle
Community Drum Circle
Our Community Drumming Circle, initially formed over 14 years ago by the (late) Pearl Brown along with Regina Millis, Ricia Fleming and led by Don Goldman, has returned to UUCGL in 2022!
Over the years this group has offered a wonderful embodied spiritual practice, built friendships, and created community. Many in the group play the African Djembe, but other types of drums and percussion instruments are welcome. Suggested donation is $5-$10.
Open to individuals 10 years-old and up, the Drum Circle plays African based rhythms along with free-formed ones, that blend together, in a moving, spiritual way. It is a way to express yourself. You will leave the afternoon feeling inspired and relaxed. No experience necessary! Come out and plan to have an afternoon of spiritual awakening, fun and meeting wonderful people. Drums are available for borrowing, and you are free to dance if the spirit moves you. These events are open to the larger community and so please feel free to bring a friend and spread the word!
Meditation Group
Mindfulness-Based Meditation Practice Group
with Anne Principe, via Zoom
While we are apart, we can breathe together . . .
All are welcome to be a part of a small group ministry to practice mindfulness meditation. Now more than ever, our connections with each other are vital to our sense of calm and hope.
Each morning’s meditation will offer
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introduction of core concept
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silent meditation of 5-10 minutes seated comfortably in your own space
Click here for sign up, more information, and to find out what you’ll need in preparation for the practice.
Wisdom Circle
Wisdom Circle
Wisdom Circle is a monthly gathering geared toward seniors to share the perspectives and life experiences of older age. It is intended to be supportive and informative, a program both of faith development and pastoral ministry.
All are welcome, even if you have not participated before. Looking forward to seeing you!
For meeting information contact Gloria Kozlosky or Ruth Griffin.
Dialogue Group
1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month
at 8pm (on Zoom)
Request More Information
Dialogue Group
"Dialogue" is a way of practicing deep listening that enables us to share personal experiences and thoughts in a way that collectively builds a more expansive understanding of ourselves and the world around us. The Dialogue Group is led by Ron Fishman who dialogues using the Bohmian Method. The Bohmian Method is a free-flowing group conversation. Participants attempt to experience everyone’s point of view equally and nonjudgmentally. New participants are always welcome.
Dialogue and the discursive meditation are part of the method of Cafh, a path of spiritual unfolding. Click for more information about the discursive meditation, and Cafh here. You can connect to the Zoom meeting here.
Choir
Choir
Do You Like to Sing? Singing together is a special joy and we are thrilled to be able to gather together to share our music. We would love to welcome you as a new (or returning) member.
We rehearse on Thursdays evenings in the sanctuary at 7:30. If you are interested in joining the choir, you can contact our Music Director, Kenneth Griffith, for more information, or just come to any rehearsal.