Faithfulness Groups To Support Witness

With so many pressing and significant issues, it can be difficult to know where to put our limited energy and time. Listening to the spirit in a group setting can help us understand our leadings and limitations. The concept of faithfulness has deep roots in Quaker faith, and refers to simply listening to the Spirit and doing what it teaches (and no more than that).

This spirit-led space could be especially useful due to the increasing criminalisation and oppression of peaceful protest – which may necessitate a greater discernment around risks, and perhaps alternate pathways.

Session 1 – Wednesday 4 September 19:00-20:30 (UK time)
In the initial session we will all introduce ourselves and explore the concept of faithfulness groups outlined by Marcelle Martin in the book ‘Guide to Faithfulness Groups’ http://www.innerlightbooks.com/books/guide-to-faithfulness-groups.html

Session 2 – Wednesday 18 September, 19:00-20:30 (UK time)
The second session will include warm-up activities in the spirit of getting to know each other, and exploring spiritual vulnerability. We will then form small faithfulness groups and divide into breakout rooms, one room per group. We will remain with these smaller groups for most of the course – an invitation to greater depth.

Session 3-6 – Wednesdays 2 October, 16 October, 30 October and 13 November, 19:00-20:30 (UK time)
We will experience four complete faithfulness group sessions where each person within the small group takes a turn as the ‘focus person’ who brings an issue. Group members will also get to practise supporting roles. Support will be on hand from the facilitators at all times.

Session 7 – Wednesday 27 November, 19:00-20:30 (UK time)
The final session will reflect on the process and discern next steps.

It is important to highlight here that this is a participatory, peer-based, mutually-held process, not a traditional or theoretical ‘course’ type experience. We are facilitating a space for a group spiritual practice. This necessitates a commitment to the entire process from everyone involved.

Click here to discover other courses and sessions linked to the theme of supporting witness.