Events
Download a spreadsheet file of the schedule HERE.
Workshop Presenters
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Thurs Workshop Option 1 - Shared Power, Shared Purpose: Sociocracy in Practice
What might change if we reimagined how we organize, lead, and make decisions in our congregations? Sociocracy offers a practical and deeply values-aligned approach to sharing power, making decisions, and cultivating collaboration—not simply as a governance system, but as a spiritual practice. Join us for an introduction to the principles and practices of sociocracy, and explore how they might help us transform leadership, strengthen shared ministry, and build communities that embody the values we teach.
Rev. Sarah Prickett (she/her) has served as the minister at Northwoods Unitarian Universalist Church in Spring, Texas, since 2018. A minister, poet, former newspaper editor, and persistent experimenter in doing church differently, she is especially interested in sociocracy as a spiritual practice that helps congregations share power, deepen collaboration, and align their structures with their values. Sarah holds an MFA in creative writing and believes that how we organize ourselves is one of the stories we tell about who we are.
Friday Workshop Option 2 - More Than One Way In: REimagining Faith Formation
What if engaging more people in faith formation isn't about doing more, but opening more doors? In this interactive workshop, we'll experience three interconnected access points to faith formation through reflection, connection, and creative expression, then put the framework to work on our own programs. Together, we'll uncover strengths, blind spots, and overlooked possibilities, from individual gatherings to the congregation's broader faith formation offerings. You'll leave with practical tools and fresh ideas to strengthen what's already working and open new doors to connection and engagement.
Jessica Laikeman (she/her) is in her 15th year as a UU religious educator and currently serves as Director of Lifespan Faith Development at Church of the River in Memphis, Tennessee. Drawing on her experience in congregational faith development and regional summer camp leadership, she brings a creative, experiential, and relationship-centered approach to her work. At the heart of that work is a passion for creating spaces where people of all ages experience a genuine sense of belonging and find meaningful ways to connect, grow, and live their values.
Friday Workshop Option 1 - Pastoral Care for Families
This workshop will equip participants to identify pastoral needs and the skills to provide basic pastoral care to families. We will discuss the difference between pastoral care and therapy, the use of assessment tools, approaches to providing care, and the importance of active listening, maintaining boundaries and self differentiation.
Rev. Mr. Barb Greve, MCRE, BCC (he / him / his) has served as a religious professional for over 30 years, in institutional ministry, religious education, and chaplaincy. He is a master-level credentialed religious educator, ordained UU minister, and a board certified chaplain. Barb currently lives in Northern CA, where he enjoys spending time with chosen family.
Friday Workshop Option 2 - From Caricature to Masterpiece
At times what is expected of us is fully realistic. At other times, completely surreal. Let’s take a look at our Religious Education programs through an artistic lens. We’ll gain a new perspective by reviewing our history and focusing on current elements that are going well. Then we’ll take a step back to widen our view to see what possibilities lie ahead on the horizon.
Supplies needed: Please have pen and paper available for a Zentangle meditation.
Joanne Dingus (she/her/hers) is currently in her 27th year as Director of Religious Education at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Newport News, VA. She has been on the Youth Caucus staff at General Assembly. She was also on Core Staff for the children’s program at SUUSI.
