Religious Education Programs 2009-2010 Theme World Religions
Nursery (infants through age 3) Tender loving childcare is provided each Sunday (and for all congregational events upon request) in our Nursery, from 10AM through 12 noon.
Picture Book World Religions (Pre-K-1st Grade and/or ages 3-6) This curriculum introduces our youngest students to Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism world religions through picture books and age appropriate activities. Curriculum to go through Fall 2009 Special Times (Pre K-1st Grade and/or ages 3-6)
This curriculum explores the Jewish and Christian heritages that inform our Unitarian Universalist faith by celebrating holidays and other special times we set apart for worship and ceremony. Filled with arts and craft projects, stories, songs and group activities. Curriculum to begin Spring 2010.
Elementary School
Holidays and Holy Days (Grades 2-5 and/or ages 7-11)
In this program, participants explore world faiths by learning about the origins and meaning of holidays and holy day celebrations. The authors state, "Holidays are the natural, age-old vehicle of religious socialization. Their festivities tell a story which children absorb with delight, through experiences far more than through words. Decorations, colors, costumes, dances, lights, songs, foods, festivity, gifts, excitement, pageantry, solemnity, ceremony, and ritual: it is of these that tradition is woven, that memories, beliefs, values, fears, hopes, and reverence are transmitted. A holiday is not something to talk about . . . it's something to DO."
Middle School and Youth Group
Coming of Age (Grades 6-9 and/or ages 11-14)
Through this program, younger youth investigate their personal spirituality with the support of church mentors. Youth participants in the program are encouraged to develop a greater sense of what they believe through discussion, meetings with the minister, participation in workshops, and social action. Participants are invited to present their belief statements at the annual Religious Education Sunday in the spring. Program to begin in Spring 2010
Youth Group (Grades 9-12 and/or ages 14-18) The youth group plans social activities, organizes social actions, attends district rallies, and worships together. The youth group meets on Sundays from noon to 1PM. During Sunday morning class time, high school youth are welcome to attend the worship service with the larger congregation or to assist with the younger classes.
Volunteering with RE
RE Teachers Description
RE teachers should be adults who have a commitment to the spiritual growth of children and youth. Teachers in the RE program do not need previous experience in education or ministry to be involved in our program. The DRE provides curriculum, a RE volunteer orientation at the beginning of the year, and supplies. Teachers are expected to plan lessons by themselves or with their co-teacher based on age appropriate curriculum. They are also expected to keep records of attendance and lessons. RE Teachers may choose to work on special RE projects (an inter-generational service, helping to plan a youth event, etc.) from time to time. The DRE is available to support all RE Teachers as needed.
RE Aides Description
RE Aides can be youth or adults who are excited about supporting RE Teachers in Sunday classes. RE Aides do not need previous experience in education or ministry work. They should attend the RE volunteer orientation at the beginning of the year, and support their teacher as needed. The DRE is available to support all RE Aides as needed.
Religious Education Programs 2009-2010
Holidays and Holy Days (Grades 2-5 and/or ages 7-11)
RE Teachers Description