Faith Formation
A lifelong process of nurturing…
Spiritual Growth.
Personal Meaning.
Community Connection.
UU Shared Values
Unitarian Universalist faith formation is a lifelong process of nurturing spiritual growth, personal meaning, and community connection within the UU shared values.
It emphasizes individual exploration of faith and values, incorporating learning from diverse sources, engaging in social justice, and fostering a loving community for all ages.
Programs include classes, worship, multigenerational gatherings, and activities like art and meditation, all designed to deepen understanding of UU principles and inspire compassionate action.
Children and Youth Programming
Greater Nashville UU uses an emergent faith formation space to build community and faith formation with our children and youth. We know that time is a precious resource for parents and volunteers. An emergent faith formation space is a less structured, more experiential approach to spiritual growth that prioritizes relationships, authenticity, and community over traditional curricula and rigid doctrines. These spaces allow for co-creation, collaboration, and opportunities for individuals to explore and "own" their faith in authentic and transformative ways.
Multigenerational Programming
UU (Unitarian Universalist) multigenerational education is a faith-based community model where people of all ages are seen as both teachers and learners, fostering mutual growth, connection, and support across generations. It counters modern age segregation by creating integrated learning opportunities and communal experiences that value every individual's contributions and build a stronger, more holistic faith community.
These programs are for both Teens and Adults.
UU Compass Small Group
Multigenerational Small Group: Teens to Adults
Class Time: 12:45 PM - 2:00 PM (in Sanctuary)
Dates: September 21, October 26, November 16, and December 14.
Facilitators: Kristin R. with Nathaniel B.
What is UU Compass Small Group?
This fall we’re offering UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults) based on the Starting Point curriculum from Soul Matters.
UU Compass is not a lecture series — it’s an experience. Together, we’ll practice deep listening, share our personal journeys, and explore Unitarian Universalism as a living path of meaning and connection.
Together we’ll:
Explore Our Journeys – reflect on our own spiritual paths and what brought us here.
Discover Our Tradition – learn the unfolding story of Unitarian Universalism through the lens of healing disconnection.
Build Connections – practice the deep listening and sharing that make small groups so life-giving in UU congregations.
Find Our Next Step – discern how each of us can walk more deeply with this community, whether as a newcomer or a longtime member.
Who is UU Compass Small Group for?
Newcomers who want more than information — a real taste of UU community.
Long-time members seeking to reconnect with UU values and practices.
Teens and adults alike, eager to walk together across generations.
Whether you’re brand new or have been here for decades, UU Compass will help you find your bearings, discover companions, and chart the next step of your journey.
Want more information?
Contact Kristin R. (kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org)
Adult Programming
UU adult religious education encompasses a variety of lifelong faith formation activities, including classes, small group discussions, social justice initiatives, and community programs, all designed to foster spiritual growth, deepen understanding of Unitarian Universalist values, and strengthen connections within the congregation and the broader community. These programs are a core part of the Unitarian Universalist Association's "lifespan faith development" approach, recognizing that spiritual growth is a continuous journey for people of all ages and stages of life.
Listening Circles
UU Listening Circles are a practice within Unitarian Universalism where facilitated small groups engage in active, respectful listening and sharing to foster personal healing, build community, and deepen relationships within the congregation. Drawing from the principles of indigenous and restorative justice practices, participants take turns speaking their personal truth and listening with curiosity, without the goal of problem-solving or debate. These voluntary gatherings can address issues impacting the community or explore spiritual and life questions, creating a safe space for authentic connection and understanding.
Rev. Denise facilitates Listening Circles every other month on the 4th Sunday.
Fall 2025 Dates: September 28 & November 23 after potluck lunch (around 1 PM)
Covenant Groups
UU covenant groups, also known as small group ministries, are small, facilitated groups of less than 12 people within a Unitarian Universalist (UU) congregation that meet regularly to build community, foster spiritual growth, and provide a safe space for personal reflection on a variety of life topics. Members create and follow a set of group-specific covenants, which are promises to treat each other with respect and confidentiality, to support each other's spiritual journey, and often to engage in community service. These groups are a core way for UUs to live out their values of justice, equity, and compassion in a more intimate setting within the larger congregation. Want to Start a New Covenant Group? Talk to Rev. Denise!
Women's Covenant Group: 1st Thursdays, 1:00 PM, in person and on Zoom
Contact: Denise G.