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.