Adult Programs

Who: All

Meets: Once a month via Zoom, days and times vary – Registration is required (below)

Contact: Devon McClurken, Director of Faith Formation, dff@ucdsm.org

Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:

• First, we listen to each other. Listening is a gift not often offered in our culture. Most of the time, we are “talked at” rather than listened to. Being listened to by trusted companions helps us hear our own voice again. And more than that, it gives our story back.
• Second, we listen to our lives. This is not easy to do. Directly or indirectly, we are taught to see life as a challenge not a companion. The goal is to conquer it, not listen to it. Soul Matters invites us to take another look and dance with life in a new way. Through spiritual practices and questions focused on our daily living, we engage the world, not as an obstacle course to get through, but as a host of voices calling us to greater loving and living.
• Finally, we listen to our deepest selves. Introspective questions guide us in this work, but ironically, it’s the people and space around us that helps us go inward. We hear that “still, small voice inside” best when voices of friends speak in a disciplined way.

Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — adds up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home.

How it works

At the beginning of each month, participants will receive a packet of materials based upon the month’s theme. From these materials, each participant chooses one spiritual exercise and a deep question to sit with for the course of the month. At the end of the month, participants will gather with their group to share their experiences of the spiritual exercise, of contemplating their question, and to reflect on the theme.

Soul Matters Themes

September: Possibility
October: Relationship
November: History
December: Joy
January: Intention
February: Widening the Circle
March: Faith
April: Awakening
May: Beauty
June: Blessings

This class is for those who want to learn more about us or are considering becoming a member. See further details at UU and You Class.

Join Cody for free technical consultation starting Wednesday, April 6, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m in the First Unitarian Church Stonewall Conference Room.

Cody will be available to answer your questions about your computers, tablets, cell phones, bluetooth devices, password management, and many things in-between! Sign up below to reserve a 10-15 minute time slot – first come, first served. Please bring your devices and all applicable cords, documentation, and manuals with you to First Unitarian Church.

Cody is also available on a volunteer basis at the following locations and times:

Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m. at the Des Moines Public Library Central Location | Find him in the Tech Central Room!

Saturdays from 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the Dining Room at Plymouth Place.