PBUUC Small Group Mission Discernment

“Listen, Connect and Imagine” 

PBUUC Small Group Mission Discernment 

This pivotal moment in this church brings with it an opportunity to discern who we are now, as a congregation, and what our purpose is.  This deep work will take time and everyone’s engagement.  For this year, our focus is on one piece of our mission:

How are we with each other, here in this congregation?

This discernment process makes space for listening to others, and reflecting on how we have engaged with each other.  We’re also exploring which habits of engagement we want to nurture, and which we want to change.  And we’re envisioning concrete action based on that reflection. 

Many members and friends are participating!  This is good news.  In addition to being serious work for this church, with everyone’s input needed, this is an exciting opportunity for each of us to clarify our own sense of purpose here, and to connect more deeply with each other.  And the outcome will depend on all of our commitment to the process.

What is the process?  The Mission Discernment Subcommittee of the Board decided that the process for this discernment will be based on small groups that will each meet five times. These groups are confidential spaces to explore these issues, and will report responses and ideas that will be compiled and shared with all.  Facilitators for these groups have been recruited and trained. 

The five topics are:

  • Listening
  • Reflecting
  • Imagining
  • Transformation
  • Accountability

How were the groups created?  Groups were assigned based on each person’s schedule preference and the goal of including diverse experiences and perspectives in every group.  Both online and in-person groups have been formed.

When do these groups meet?  Meetings begin in January.  Each group meets five times, approximately weekly. 

Can I switch groups?  Because building group relationships and trust is a key part of this process, a commitment to attending all five sessions is expected, and there will be no moving from group to group. 

What if I have questions?  Please contact the Mission Discernment Subcommittee:  missionteam@pbuuc.org.

Mission Discernment Services