CHILDREN'S EDUCATION

{Religious Education Director | Religious Education Update}

“We are Unitarian Universalists. We promise to give our eternal friendship to each other, our families, and our world.”

Our children wrote the above affirmation statement, which they recite every Sunday during our morning service. They are an important part of our congregation and are included in the first part of every Sunday service. During “Time for our Children,” the minister, speaker, or a UUCVH member presents a story or brief conversation chosen to fit the theme of the morning. The remainder of their morning is spent in religious education classes.

Our goals include helping children recognize their individual worth and explore their own beliefs. They learn about UU traditions and values as well as traditions of other world religions. Most of our curriculums are chosen from those provided by the Unitarian Universalist Association and are decided upon by the religious education director and the UUCVH Religious Education Committee (comprised primarily of parents).

Currently we have children of ages ranging from older preschool to mid-teen years. Depending on the planned lesson or activities, the children meet as one large group or divide into two groups according to age. Emphasis is placed on the UU principles and group projects, including service to the church and community. Adults from the congregation regularly share their talents and interests with the children. We provide nursery care for our youngest children. Older teens and young adults may make use of the shared programs of Unitarian Universalist congregations in the district.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION UPDATE

Ann Kleinsasser, RE Liaison

As our RE program continues to evolve, some Sunday mornings involve the group as a whole and sometimes we divide into older and younger groups for special age-appropriate activities. Our new minister, Rev. Stefanie, got acquainted with all of the children and youth on her first Sunday with us by meeting with the class during the service. Ingathering Sunday found the youth involved in thoughtful discussion with Arya Khosravi (you may remember his sister Asha who used to provide childcare in our nursery). The younger children created "water" pictures while learning about our use of water and ways to conserve.

Rev. Stefanie is helping us coordinate with the District Director of Lifespan Programs, Tera Little, to find a director for our RE program. We are committed to providing a quality program for all ages. It has been great to see so many children and youth in attendance, often bringing friends who are always welcome.