After experimenting with a variety of models, a basic design with certain core activities set in a specific order has been developed that maximizes impact. Once this is familiar, you may want to try some of the bonus activities for variety, though variety is probably more important for you than for the participants.
The basic design for Circle of the Word is planned for a 90-minute session. That assumes a fairly quick pace and that no one (including the Circlekeepers) talks extensively. It also assumes starting on time and not being interrupted (for example, by a Corrections Office coming to get someone). It’s a good idea to build in a 15-minute cushion.
Furthermore, if the group is large (10-15 total) and if most people share during the connection rounds, 90 minutes won’t be long enough to follow the basic design. Both of these were factors at the prison and we usually went overtime. If I were to do it there again I would plan on 2 hours with a break. That was the majority opinion of the men who participated—they did not want to drop any activities.
The basic design is organized in three main parts:
- Getting Started—about 20 minutes. Includes introductions, the opening ceremony, and various administrative and group formation activities.
- Engaging the Story—about 50 minutes. The heart of Circle of the Word, with various activities for engaging the story.
- Winding Up—about 20 minutes. Includes check-out, comments on class, collecting everything, prayer cards (if applicable), and closing ceremony (song and/or prayer).