circles of trust
“A circle of trust has no agenda except to help people listen to their own souls and discern their own truths…Its singular purpose is to support the inner journey of each person in the group, to make each soul feel safe enough to show up and speak its truth, to help each person listen to his or her own inner teacher.”
- Parker J. Palmer
A Circle of Trust® is a small, confidential, and intentional group where individuals gather to engage in meaningful and reflective dialogue. Based on the pioneering work of Dr. Parker J. Palmer, a process called the Circle of Trust® approach has been developed through the Center for Courage & Renewal. These circles provide a safe and supportive environment for participants to explore their inner lives, share their thoughts and feelings, and engage in deep self-reflection.
In this circle, participants often use practices such as active listening, storytelling, and genuine conversation to explore questions related to personal and spiritual growth. The aim is to create a space where individuals can be authentic, express their innermost thoughts and experiences, and build connections with others on a profound level.
While Circles of Trust® are often associated with spiritual development, they can be adapted to various contexts and goals, such as personal and professional development, education, or community building. The key element is the creation of a safe and respectful space for meaningful dialogue and self-exploration.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Wild Edge of Sorrow
Men’s Cohort
A 5-Week In-Person Journey into Grief, Connection, and Wholeness
Thursdays, 6:30–8:30 PM
January 15th- February 12th
Boulder, CO
Facilitated by: Will Forsythe, Adam Bailon & Steve Gioielli
This in-person men’s cohort is a place to bring the grief you carry — in its rawness, its silence, its mystery. Over five evenings together, we will gather in a Circle of Trust® to make space for sorrow, witness one another without judgment, and remember what it means to grieve in community.
Rooted in the soul-centered work of Francis Weller and grounded in Parker J. Palmer’s Courage & Renewal® approach, this circle offers structure, depth, and safety — so you don’t have to walk with your grief alone.
“Grief is not a burden we carry; it is a profound act of soul.
It is the soul’s acknowledgment of what we hold most dear.”
— Francis Weller, The Wild Edge of Sorrow
