Preparation
- A group of eight to 20 people, seated in a circle, with a table in the middle, is ideal.
- Do whatever preparation works for your group to get into sacred circle, such as the traditional Torah blessing, singing, davenen, meditation.
- Make sure everyone understands that their primary responsibility is to listen deeply to each other.
Three Circles
- First circle - read the text. Go around the circle. Each person reads a little, until the parsha (or whatever text you are studying) is complete. No comments or discussion.
- Second circle - talking stick. Place a sacred object, such as a shofar, on the table to use as a talking stick. Each person who wants to has an opportunity to pick up the talking stick, and give over whatever is in his/her mind or heart in response to the reading. There are no comments or cross talk; only the person with the talking stick may speak. When each person is done speaking, they replace the talking stick on the table.
- Third circle - further discussion. When everyone who wants to has had the chance to speak with the talking stick, the group takes a little time for further comments or discussion. Normal discussion is fine.
Conclusion
- Do a concluding ceremony that works for your group, such as a healing circle, conclusion of davenen, singing.
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