See the Sample Basic Design (download PDF) for a script of these elements of the Circle.

For details about these peacemaking circle processes, see Heart of Hope Resource Guide edited by Carolyn Boyes-Watson, and Kay Pranis.

Talking piece—Find something around the house/church/community that reflects an element of the story. You can ask participants why you chose the talking piece and let them name its connection with the story. Whether their understanding of the connection is the same as yours does not matter; you will have provided a hook for them to remember the story. If there is no connection, explain why you picked the object. The talking piece will be passed around the Circle, so it should be something hand-friendly and preferably non-breakable (especially since there are often restrictions in jails/prison about bringing in metal and breakable objects).

Check-In—This first practice round should be easy for everyone to answer so as to be as non-threatening as possible, while still providing a way for everyone’s voice to be heard. Its purpose is to form the Circle as a safe place. It also is a first step of engagement with the story: naming how familiar you are with it. I use a small chart displayed in the table-top pocket chart to tally the degree of familiarity people have with the story. You can also write down their “feeling” words if you like.

Agreements—This process forms a covenant group, where everyone agrees on how they will function with regard to those activities that use the talking piece (and by association, with other activities as well). Resist the temptation to do this as a group, rather than using the talking piece and having each person voice their agreement. If someone really cannot manage these guidelines and cannot agree to them, they are free to leave the group without judgment. I have never had this happen, but there is always a first time. I have had people ask, “What if someone does not agree?” and I tell them they are free to leave.