As part of our mission to nourish souls and transform lives, we offer many avenues to pursue lifelong learning, from drop-in groups and special-topic classes to small, covenanted groups that meet throughout the year. Please visit our calendar and watch out for notices on our Friday emails for new learning opportunities. Sign up for upcoming class series here. Read below for more information about our ongoing programs.
If you have any questions about our adult programs, please e-mail .
Austin LGBTQ Community Heart Circle
This open meeting on the third Sunday of each month brings together lesbian women, gay men, non-binary people, trans people, and even straight allies in search of spiritual and personal growth.
At one time in their lives, just about everyone who attends First UU’s monthly LGBTQ Community Heart Circle was a troubled queer kid, giving them a unique perspective on faith, current events, and the nature of human existence.
The facilitated discussions we have at the LGBTQ Community Heart Circle reflect that insightful worldview. The group has been a part of what keeps Austin strong for over 25 years now. Allies are always welcome – please join us!
Strong friendships have developed between participants, and new people are always welcomed with open arms. The business of transforming lives can start off just like that – with a smile that turns a stranger into a friend!
Join this group here to get meeting reminders and updates or just show up!
Sign Up for Year-Long Small Group Programs
Our 2024-2025 church year Chalice Circle and Wellspring small group ministries are now open for enrollment!
Chalice Circles are frequently cited by church members as a great way to establish deep and meaningful connections here at First UU Austin, as well as to nourish one’s soul. These monthly, lay-led small groups (10 or fewer) are dedicated to intentional, deep listening. Some are in person; some are online.
Chalice Circle groups usually meet from September – June, using the highly-regarded Soul Matters small group ministry curriculum. Monthly themed packets include readings, activities, and opportunities for reflection. Participants share in a confidential, covenanted group.
Wellspring – A sense of personal purpose and meaning arises from UU Wellspring’s unique, small groups that include a combination of spiritual practices, spiritual companionship, readings, and heart-opening sessions. A sustaining joy emerges while deepening commitment to making change in ourselves and our world.
Wellspring sessions run concurrent with the church year with the first sessions occurring in September, after which new enrollment is closed. Enrollment in online sessions may be offered at the UU Wellspring website throughout the year.
Wellspring: Love at The Center is one of two foundational programs, exploring UU Values and Covenants with Love at the Center. Either this program or UU Sources meets the requirement for a foundation before taking any other Wellspring program.
Group members meet twice a month for 10 months beginning in September to experience deep listening and spiritual reflection in small groups of about ten, inspiring personal and community transformation. Participants read, view, and respond to pre-session assignments that are focused on spiritual topics and UU Theology.
Wellspring: Spiritual Practices – Participants explore spiritual practices, both from our UU tradition and from other faith traditions to strengthen awareness of their own connection with the holy as a foundation for serving the needs of the world.
Please note: To enroll in Wellspring: Spiritual Practices, you must have already completed either the Wellspring Sources or Love at the Center Program.
Click here to see what groups are available and to request enrollment in a small group ministry!
If you would be interested in learning more about facilitating a small group, please send an email message to ministers@austinuu.org.
Our small group ministry programs are open to folks attending worship regularly and/or who are involved in other activities in the life of the church. If you attend First UU but are not a member or for another reason don’t have an account, please fill out this form to get signed up.
