Your Religious Exploration (RE) Team has been busy this summer dreaming up a new paradigm for what was formerly called our Religious Education program. Through this collaborative process, we discovered that there are many aspects of our traditional RE program that we love and should remain in place; some that could be improved; and a few things that needed to be completely transformed. We also recognize that there will continue to be a need for flexibility as we grow into our new paradigm and learn where we need to adjust the program. Today, we are excited to announce our new RE program and invite you to share in the process with your thoughts, energy, ideas and participation!
Why is it “Religious Exploration” instead of “Religious Education?”
We have changed our program name to “Religious Exploration,” instead of “Religious Education.” The term “exploration” reflects our commitment to a more participatory model, rather than a top-down approach; and to learning about ourselves, our beliefs, and our relationships with each other, our community, and the rest of the world.
What will be different about RE?
You will see a new, more open format to our Sunday morning RE programs. No longer are our programs structured by age groups or school grades. In recognition of the fluid nature of development, learning styles, interests and preferences among adults and youth of all ages, we are no longer dividing our UU members by age. Our new RE program will include the following options, all of which are open to participants of all ages.
Pathways – For those of us who like to explore our spirituality with movement, play and art, our Pathways program is the place to be on Sunday mornings. Youth Coordinator Mary Smalley and an RE assistant will be leading participants in hands-on activities while engaging them in a participatory discussion related to the Sunday service.
Connections – Anyone who wishes to delve into their spirituality through small group discussion will be able to join Ted deChatelet and Anna Barsotti as they lead a thoughtful discussion about the sermon topic, current events, and whatever rises to the surface! This group often decides to walk over to the Black Rock coffee shop just next door to the Senior Center.
Sanctuary – Adults and youth of all ages are always welcome to join the congregation in the sanctuary to listen to the Sunday Sermon. Our guest speakers often bring new and interesting perspectives that are engaging to UU members of all ages. Additionally, both the Worship and the RE Committees strive to plan multigenerational services at least once a quarter, and we encourage everyone to plan on participating in these fun, interactive events!
How do we build on RE at home?
Starting this Sunday, October 6, we will be including a Take it Home activity in the Order of Service that will provide some prompts designed to encourage a continuation of our spiritual exploration at home, following each traditional Sunday service. Try it out as a family dinner conversation topic, over a cup of coffee or tea with your loved one(s), or by yourself in a quiet moment of reflection.
We look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas to help us continue shaping our RE program. Please feel free to reach out to us after the service, or by emailing REinfo@macuuf.org!
—Your RE Team (Suzanne Teller, Jay Nelson, Anna Barsotti, Mary Smalley, Ted deChatelet)