As we approach the 2009-2010 RE year, we are shifting how we refer to what we do from Religious Education to Religious Exploration. Using the term “exploration” makes the action active rather than passive.
It applies to all lifespan learning, regardless of age, whether self directed, in a classroom setting, or in small group ministry. It also reflects the shift away from lessons that are imparted from a teacher to a student, toward a shared sense of learning. In a very real way, we hope that our Religious Exploration Leaders – those adults in the RE room on Sunday – are exploring and developing their faith and values, just as much as the youth and children are. The curriculum we’ve chosen embraces and provides for this.
Our theme for the upcoming RE Year is U*U and Me! The focus of each class will be explicitly on Unitarian Universalism (or Unitarianism, Universalism, or both – hence the *). In addition, during their own worship and throughout their spaces, the children will focus on one UU Principle per month. The Junior Youth Group will go deep, exploring their own beliefs and their connections to Unitarian Universalism and this congregation, in a fabulous new Coming of Age Program. The Senior Youth Group will explore our neighbouring faiths, many of which relate to our Sources, and will continue their connection to the national youth movement. And both groups can come together for youth worship.
Another aspect of U*U and Me! - the “you and me” pun - is about community. An important part of Unitarian Universalism is the concept of the beloved community. By planning events for parents, families, youth, children, young adults, and elders, we hope to enhance existing connections, and help forge new ones. Some of these events will be focused on a common group (to allow parents, for example, to bond with other parents raising young children with UU values) and others will be intentionally inter or multigenerational. All of this fabulous programming begins with a multigenerational service on September 13th, which includes a Water Ceremony (please see the RE News page). Classes and Youth Groups begin on September 20th.
Until then, I am on leave through July, then back in the office on August 4th, when I’ll be putting finishing touches on the exciting year that the Committee for Religious Exploration has envisioned. If you are interested in learning more or would like to get involved, please contact me in August at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 474-1261.
Wishing you a summer full of wonder,
Andrea James,
Director of Religious Education
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