Lifespan Religious Education

At the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, we see religious education as an integral part of a healthy and happy congregation serving all members of our church community from the cradle to the grave.  In keeping with our core Unitarian Universalist principles, our programming is designed to support and enhance lifelong learning and spiritual growth.

Led by a volunteer Religious Education Committee and a professional Director of Religious Education; and partnering with the Minister, church leadership and other volunteer committees, the RE program manages several ongoing and special functions, including:

• Sunday Child care for 2-4 year olds;
  

  RE Bulletin Board

   

• Church School, with curricula serving two groups of children at the K-3 and the 4-6 grade levels;
• Youth Group for teens on a twice-monthly basis;
• A Coming of Age (COA) program for both 11-12 year-olds, and for teens, in partnership with the First Universalist Church of Essex;
• Adult curriculum focused on particular topics or themes;
• Annual social justice programming such as “Guest at Your Table;”
• A Unitarian Universalist fundamentals program specifically for new members;
• Intergenerational Sunday Services; and
• Family programming.

COMING OF AGE

Offered in conjunction with the Essex UU Church, the Coming of Age (COA) program is for 12-14 year olds and represents an important stepping-stone for youth maturing into young adulthood.  The program focuses on learning Unitarian Universalist values, performing community service, exploring religious questions and, ultimately, writing a personal credo, or statement of beliefs.  As a culmination to the program, youth construct a Sunday service of recognition that they present to the congregations of each church.  Offered bi-annually, the program is a 12-month commitment.  Look to local media and in both church communications for future offerings.

OUR WHOLE LIVES

Sexuality education is a critical aspect to whole and healthy development for young and old alike.  Developed in a partnership between the Unitarian Universalist Association and the United Church of Christ, Our Whole Lives (OWL) offers age-appropriate, faith-based sexuality education in a safe and thoughtful manner.  Programs are offered occasionally for young children, teens and young adults.  Announcements in local media and at the Gloucester church will alert the community to upcoming offerings.

 YOUTH GROUP

Youth Group represents an opportunity for faith and fellowship among teen members of the Gloucester and Essex Unitarian Universalist churches.  Participants must be between 13-18 years old.  The group meets on the 1st and 3rd Sunday each month for a small, collaborative dinner, games, conversation and an occasional special program.  Youth Group is led by Rev. Wendy Fitting and the Directors of Religious Education (Gloucester) and Lois Bairstow (Essex).  Contact either church for details, or to join.

If you have questions, comments or suggestions about our Religious Education (RE) program, or if you are interested in joining the RE Committee and helping to shape and support the work of religious education here, please feel free to contact the Director of Religious Education, or the Chair of the Religious Education Committee.  [see below]

Caroline Connolly, Chair RE Committee – or email the chuch:  gloucesteruu@earthlink.net

 Click here for RE Enrollment form Religious Education Enrollment Form (127)