Lifespan Religious Exploration
Children’s Programs
Youth UU Religious Exploration (R.E.) Sundays, 10:30 am
UU Youth Education Program The Fall R.E. has just begun! Children meet in the downstairs classroom shortly after the chalice lighting at weekly Sunday Services. To learn more about the R.E. youth classes and share your ideas:
Sue Penny 631-725-6435 suepenny@optonline.net
or Kent Martin 631-806-2092 kmartin@npr.org .
Broad Wings, Deep Roots: Religious Education for Children and Youth
We serve children of all ages in a variety of programs. Sunday morning childcare, classes and services are a part of our religious education program, but only a part. Ultimately our curriculum embraces all experiences, planned and unplanned, which we enjoy together in religious community. Religious exploration begins with an introduction to the principles of Unitarian Universalism and lessons from UU-based curriculum that explore world views as well as one’s own beliefs, values, and philosophies. Curriculum themes are chosen by the minister, our religious exploration coordinator, and the children, giving all those involved a voice in the types of programs we offer. The classes are taught by members of the congregation.
Religious exploration happens not only in classrooms, but in play, in chance encounters with one another, in formal ritual, and in informal conversation. Important as developmentally appropriate programs are, it’s also important that children come to know Unitarian Universalism by being a part of the whole community. This happens in a number of ways. All of us begin each Sunday morning together in worship. A nurturing daycare is provided for the youngest children. Several times a year, we have Worship for All Ages. This gives children a regular opportunity to engage with the full worship experience, not just part of it. We assist children and youth to participate in classes, activities and conferences with other Unitarian Universalists across Long Island and the Metro UU New York District.
Broad Wings, Deep Roots intentionally involves adults who aren’t parents as well as those who are, and also brings children of different ages together with each other and with the adults. Having children in our midst keeps us aware of the importance of the whole of religious community.
Adult Programs
Our congregation’s diversity of backgrounds and interests assures leadership for our wide-ranging adult programs. Programs are held at a variety of times on weekdays, and are open to the entire community. Past adult programs have included such subjects as science and religion, the Bible, Unitarian Universalist history, and several series based on curriculums developed through the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations (UUA). One of these, “Building Your Own Theology,” helped participants find their own spiritual meanings in life without the restrictions of a particular creed. Another, “Journey Towards Wholeness,” was an inquiry into how we are divided by racial and economic differences and what responses we can make to these realities. “Is there Unity in Diversity?” explored the theological differences represented in a typical UU congregation. “Spirit of Life” workshops emphasized spiritual growth and depth rather than specific practices. Check our newsletter for current programs.
Ongoing Adult Programs
Sharing Circles
Sharing Circles provide opportunities for UUCSF members and friends to gather for ongoing sharing and listening on subjects that are spiritual, religious or humanistic in nature. Groups of 8-10 people meet monthly to exchange thoughts on a chosen topic in an environment of mutual respect for different points of view, and support for continuing exploration of our individual spiritual journeys.
QiGong
QiGong, a meditative spiritual practice with movement elements similar to Tai Chi, is offered the second Sunday of every month following our regular worship service. No prior experience is necessary.
