of Westchester
What is Unitarian Universalist religious education?
"The great end in religious instruction is not to stamp our minds irresistibly upon the young but to stir up their own."
Rev. William Ellery Channing (1780-1842), father of American Unitarianism.
We see it as our task to nurture religious development. Our respect for the children teaches them respect -- for themselves, for others, and for this fragile interdependent web of which we are a part.
Who comes Here?
Diversity is a treasure that nourishes us all. Our congregation includes people from many religious and cultural backgrounds. We honor a variety of holidays, including Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Passover, Easter and Spring.
What will my child learn?
Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religion with Jewish-Christian roots. It has no creed. It affirms the worth of human beings, advocates freedom of belief and the search for truth. We affirm to provide a warm open, supportive community for people who believe that ethical living is the best witness of religion.
The four basic themes of our program are: UU Identity and Heritage, World Religions, Judeo-Christian Heritage, Social Justice and Multiculturalism. Our Religious Education committee chooses curricula from the Unitarian Universalist Association that cover each of these themes in an age appropriate manner. Classes may include stories, arts and crafts, games, music, long-term projects and the occasional field trip.
Children and Youth are also given the opportunity to participate in the UU "Our Whole Lives Sexuality Education" (OWL), written at age appropriate levels.
How are the classes organized?
The program, for children aged 3--13, is led by out co-directors of Religious Education. The classes of 5 to 8 children are organized by age and grade level. Two trained adult members of the congregation co-teach each class. The children begin each Sunday with their families. At the end of the first portion of the service they are invited upstairs to the children's Sanctuary for group Circle Time, and then to their classrooms. At 12:00 a snack is provided in the foyer.
What do you have for teenagers?
The Youth Group, for ages 13-19, meets regularly to discuss topics, participate in social action projects and have fun. They, and their adult advisers, may also attend district wide weekend retreats with other UU Youth.
UU Principles for Children
1. Each person is important
2. Be kind in all you do.
3. We are free to learn together,
4. and search for what is true.
5. All people need a voice.
6. Build a fair and peaceful world.
7. We care for the Earth's lifeboat.
Mohegan Lake, NY 10547