Running Development Circles

Starting Simple Spirituality:
Basic Meeting Conduct

Sitting Approach and Environment

  • Choose a quiet place where interruptions will not happen and with few visual distractions

  • Switch off all phones – mobile and landlines, and all doorbells, alarms etc

  • Have your spiritual logbooks and writing implements with you

  • Have a small table to place a candle(s), flowers, crystals or other small items on – keep it simple and respectful

  • A plentiful supply of water (preferably filtered) and glasses for each person present

  • Chairs should encourage you to sit upright, but not tense; use cushions and throws if this helps

  • Try not to break the circle once the meeting has started – go to the loo beforehand

  • Agree who is facilitating the meeting and don’t challenge their authority

  • Keep focussed on your purpose and don’t chatter about everyday stuff until afterwards

 

Meeting Format

  • Welcomes and Hugs

  • Opening Prayer 

  • Feedback from Homework

  • Relaxation/ Grounding and Spirit Connection

  • Opening Meditation

  • Topic for the Meeting

  • Meditation – Guided or Free

  • Practice of Specifics

  • Meditation – Guided or Free (can be omitted if time isn’t available)

  • Questions/ Answers

  • Homework for the Week

  • Closing the Circle

  • Sending the Light

  • Cup of tea and a snack afterwards and group bonding discussions about anything