A Cooperative Approach!
Specifically for our children and youth, we offer exploration of our Unitarian Universalist traditions, which affirm the great spiritual truths of all religions. We seek to assist each child in nurturing a spiritual life, ethical awareness, Unitarian Universalist identity, and faith development.
The Religious Exploration Committee and the Coordinator of Religious Exploration carefully choose curricula that best fit these objectives in age-appropriate groupings. These classes and activities are led by volunteer members of our parish.
Nursery (Ages 0-3)
We offer Sunday childcare in our nursery supervised by a trained and vetted childcare provider from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, every Sunday, September through mid-June.
Spirit Play (Ages 4-7)
Interactive stories illustrating the themes of the Seven Principles of UU plus art and play in the Tree Room and on the church grounds, following the Montessori-based approach of the UU Spirit Play program.
Pathfinders (Ages 8-10)
Teaching through exploration, adventure, and discovery, on the church grounds and in nearby gardens, woods, ponds and paths. The Seven Principles of UU continue to be explored through the UU Tapestry of Faith curriculum and resources.
Building Bridges (11-12)
An introduction to world religions using the UU Building Bridges curriculum. In-person visits to other houses of worship are interspersed with discussions, lessons, cultural sharing and more, with connections to the diverse spiritual backgrounds of many members in our own parish and community.
Our Whole Lives (Ages 13-14)
We are eager to provide the full “Our Whole Lives” (OWL) program, while understanding it may take time to build trust and connections between our youth and teachers. Based on interest and capacity, the trained OWL facilitators will engage youth to clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.
Coming of Age and Youth (Ages 14+)
Our Coming of Age experience will guide youth to answer the questions: What is my spiritual practice? Who are the people that I connect with in my faith community? How might I live out my faith in the world? Their exploration will include being paired with a mentor in our parish, and will culminate in leading a worship service, where they will share their statements of faith and identity with the congregation.
Youth Group (Ages 12+)
Youth in 7th through 12th grades are invited to participate in group social, spiritual, and service activities that occur throughout the year. We frequently partner with other local UU churches, as well as other local faith communities, for joint youth group experiences.
Have questions or want more information?
If you would like more information about any of our offerings, you can always get in touch with us.