Our Youth Religious Education Program involves students in classroom study, discussion, activities, participation in intergenerational services and community service in order to:
Foster a sense of community enabling our children to be aware that they are honored respected participants in our congregation. - Explore the nature of religion, its principles, traditions, and personal relevance in order to understand the value and identity of Unitarian Universalism.
- Encourage and develop critical thinking in our children by offering them the opportunity to learn to make responsible choices on spiritual and ethical issues.
- Develop a sense of social responsibility and commitment to social action by reinforcing our connection with other people and our planet.
- Build knowledge of the world’s varied religions in order to understand and appreciate the beliefs of others.
Registration
All children participating in our Religious Education Program - Crib Room through high school level - must be registered. Central Unitarian Church conducts class registration during the spring of the previous church year, though visitors or new members are welcome to register their children at any time during the year.
As in any educational program, parental participation is key to success. Once children are registered, it is our hope that parents or guardians will become active pledging members of our congregation. The example of parents' participation in our congregation is the most effective way to encourage a child's spiritual development.
Visitors are welcome to have their children attend our Religious Education classes. We ask only that you notify the Religious Education Office. After four weeks of attendance, visitors are are requested to formally register their children.
Family Worship
On most Sundays, young people join the the adults for the first 15 minutes of the worship service and are then excused to their classes. This practice supports and models the Religious Education objectives of fostering a sense of community and of valuing each person’s inherent worth. It also encourages respect for appropriate behavior in the Sanctuary by both children and adults.
Crib Room Care is available at 10:25 a.m.