This activity is done as two rounds with the talking piece. Its purpose is to encourage both Circlekeepers and participants to engage the story with reflective thoughtfulness.

The first round is an opportunity for participants to voice questions, concerns, confusion, and interest. The follow-up round is an opportunity for further reflection, and for the expression of opinions.

Often the questions are of a speculative nature that expand beyond what is known from the story/canon. Sometimes they are of a more factual nature that can be answered with some assurance of accuracy through biblical scholarship.

It will probably be a challenge for you as Circlekeeper to refrain from answering questions or responding to wonderings during the round. Resist the temptation to be the expert. If there are things to clarify or answer, you can do so in the follow-up round and/or in the “About the Story” activity.

Honoring the talking piece may also prove difficult for other Circle members. If necessary (because people without the talking piece are offering opinions or addressing question, or “cross talk” has developed), interrupt and gently remind everyone of the Agreements.

If you discern that a topic warrants discussion, when this activity is over set the talking piece down and have a discussion. But be wary of the tendency for people to avoid learning a story through extended discussion. Be bold about moving the group back into storylearning mode. Discussion can be continued back in the cell/pod/dormitory.

Watch out for doctrinal debates and be wary of introducing doctrinal or theological “truths.” Trust the story.

Here is a sample script for leading this activity. Start by saying:

Biblical stories invite us to wonder about things.

Because they are such old stories about people who lived in a very different culture, we don’t understand some things in the stories.

Some of us haven’t heard many biblical stories and have lots of questions about them.

Even if we have heard lots of biblical stories, they still inspire wondering.

So… What questions do you have of this story?

What does it make you wonder about?

Print responses on lined 4×6 index cards.

Pass each card around to the person who had the wondering to place in the circle.

Do a second round for people to address the question or wondering of their choice.