Jump to the 2007-2008 Program

OUR MISSION

The mission of religious education in the Unitarian Universalist Church of Marblehead is to provide an opportunity for the lifelong exploration of religious and spiritual understanding. To foster this broad-based inquiry, we support and encourage the exploration, questioning, testing and application of Unitarian Universalist Principles. We support our children and youth in their search for greater knowledge, self discovery and understanding by offering a program that develops:

• A sense of connection: among ourselves, with our UU principles, and with the world
• Respect for each other’s inherent worth and uniqueness
• The practice of compassion through social justice
• Our creative potential to be open to our dreams, imagination and talent

OUR VISION

The Unitarian Universalist education program envisions a dynamic, intergenerational community which, in partnership with the Director of Religious Education, Minister, and congregation, will:

• Energize the learning experience
• Encourage opportunities to connect with themselves and others
• Challenge thinking
• Nurture ongoing religious, spiritual and personal growth
• Create a sense of responsibility

Participants in our religious education program will develop a strong belief system which incorporates Unitarian Universalist Principles into daily life.

7 Unitarian Universalist Principles (Children’s Version):

Each person is important
Be kind in all you do
We’re free to learn together
We’re free to search for what is true
All people need a voice
Build a fair and peaceful world
We respect and care for the Earth

2007-2008 Program

We offer religious education for children in preschool through 7th grade, emphasizing the values of kindness, open-mindedness, and responsibility. Topics include our Unitarian Universalist heritage and faith, Jewish and Christian stories, religions of the world, social justice, and ethical living. The program provides friendship and spiritual guidance to the youth of our church community, based upon understanding and implementing the seven Unitarian Universalist Principles. Participation as a teacher is an enriching experience for congregation members. In addition to Sunday classes, special events are held throughout the year, such as intergenerational services, field trips to the Salem Mission and to Devereau House.

We have just started a Youth Program for our young adults in grades 7 and up. The Youth Group is involved in interfaith projects with their faith community, social action, and development of an identity.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Curriculum

Our curriculum is grounded in and guided by the Unitarian Universalist Principles. We offer our curriculum on a 3 year rotating cycle. Each year a different theme is explored. Our rotating themes include Social Justice, Our Whole Lives, UU Identity and Values, Judeo-Christian Heritage and World Religions. Children attend classes two to three times a month, with social justice activities and children’s worship occurring on the other Sundays.

Worship

Worship and celebration are a central part of our religious education program. Before classes start on Sundays, our children and their adult leaders participate in the first portion of the service in the Sanctuary. After Moments for the Young People, the children are “sung out” of the Sanctuary to their classes. Once a month, children will participate in a children’s chapel. Children also participate in intergenerational services which are held at different times throughout the year.

Classrooms

The preschool children meet in the Rainbow Room. Children in K-1 meet in the Sparkle Room. Children in grades 2-3 meet in the Sky Room. Children in grades 4-5 meet in the Nichols Library. Junior Youth in grades 6-8 meet in the Buffalo Room on the 2nd floor. Classes run until 11:45. If worship ends before this time, adults may enjoy coffee hour before they pick up their children.

Registration

All children and youth who participate in the Religious education program must be registered. Registration includes a field trip permission form as well as health/allergy information that is crucial for us to know. Registration forms are available in each classroom and outside of the church office.

Cost

There is no charge for registering your child. However, the church depends on the contributions of its members and friends. Please contact the minister if you are interested in membership.

Attendance

Please help your children attend regularly so they can really get to know each other and their leaders and feel comfortable in their church. As with adults, regular attendance promotes a feeling of being a part of our larger community. It also enhances their learning and exploration of values, heritage, and faith.

Volunteer Opportunities

At the heart of our program are dozens of creative, dedicated volunteers who teach children, serve on committees, bring snacks, and help with events. We have many opportunities for you to share your time and talents. We need help with teaching, multi-age activity hours, special events, intergenerational worship, pageants, and buying supplies. Also, if you have a special talent you would like to share such as singing or storytelling, we welcome your creative energies. If you practice a particular religious tradition, perhaps you would like to be a guest speaker in one of our world religions classes. There are many ways to get involved, and the strength of our program relies on your volunteer efforts. Please speak with Gloria Webster or a member of the Children and Youth Programs Committee if you are interested in helping out.