Hi everyone,

I'm back in the office today, wading through email, and beginning to catch up. I have enormous gratitude for the leave of absence granted by the Board, for Millie's support, and for all your kind words and wishes. Really, words can't express my appreciation.

Claire Nimmagadda, Margo Lane, Lisa Naylor, Lori Bielefeld and Katie Prescott are the heroes of the RE Program. They have done an incredible job while I've been away, and I know you share my appreciation of them and their gifts of time, spirit and love.

And boy, did I ever miss our young people! I know most of our elementary-age children will be in their final OWL class this Sunday. I'll be downstairs ahead of time, hoping to say hi, have a few hugs, and reconnect. If the kids have a chance to come downstairs a bit early, I would really love to see them, while respecting their OWL start times. On December 11th we'll get to have the whole morning together.

Once OWL begins I'll be visiting in the Preschool and Nursery rooms, and will be upstairs following the service to reconnect with the rest of the congregation.

That evening I'll be cheering on our youth at the YoHoHo dinner! I'm so proud of them.

I'm glad to be back, and missed this wonderful, caring community. See you soon,

Andrea

Religious Exploration Family Registration Form, 2011-2012

Click to download the Religious Exploration Family Registration Form, 2011-2012. 

Here is the same form in Microsoft Word if you prefer to use Word instead of the PDF file above.

Instructions:

1. Open and print the forms. Print one child form for each child.
2. Fill in the family form and one child form for each child, and bring the completed and signed forms with you to church.

A plan to meet the needs of our youth, and create a vibrant, active youth group.

The Committee for Religious Exploration has responded to a number of factors over the 2009-10 church year: changes in the age groupings for Our Whole Lives (OWL) for youth, the size and ages of our youth population, the six components of a balanced youth program, and how to best support those who work with youth.

Worship

Red is for worship; the heart, compassion, and love we share together. Don't forget, the "R" in YRUU is for "religious". Young Religious Unitarian Universalists (YRUU) is a spiritual and religious home for youth. Worship is an important and sacred part of many UU youth events. Youth worship tends to be interactive and non-traditional. It often takes place in a circle, with sharing as a focus.

Picture Book World Religions

For children ages 5 to 7 by the end of 2010

Children are introduced to three religions through stories and activities. Each sessions revolves around a picture book.

A World of New Friends:

An Introduction to World Religions

For children ages 8 to 11 by the end of 2010

Children are introduced to the religion and traditions of an imaginary class-mate through their family celebrations, art, stories, games, food and holidays.