St. John's Unitarian Universalist Church

Religious Exploration

ChildrenSunday morning Religious Exploration classes provide an opportunity for our young people to come together and learn about themselves and their religious community, practice living the Unitarian Universalist principles of respect for one another and tolerance of differing ideas, to explore religious ideas and grow spiritually, to participate in a caring community, to worship together, and to have fun.

Children and Youth Religious Exploration at St. John's involves people of all ages. Through the curricula and church activities we promote:

Each age group has different need and abilities...

Nursery and Toddlers

We emphasize continuity of care in our nursery and toddler room. Carefully screened and experienced care givers are hired by the church to be available throughout the year to see that our smallest children are nurtured and feel secure in a colorful, well-equipped room designed just for them. It is possible to be in the room with your child and hear the adult service on earphones or speaker.

Growing Times (Ages 3 and 4)

There is a paid care giver who is present each Sunday guiding the children through working and playing together, reading stories and creating crafts. This class is especially good for the children who are not quite ready for a concept class and sitting still for long periods of time.

Pre-school/Kindergarten

The yearlong curriculum, "We Are Many, We Are One", offers children the grounding of a religious community and tradition, along with the freedom to express their uniqueness. The underlying theme is anti-bias and multicultural education, celebrating diversity and interdependency. A team of volunteer teachers meets with this class.

First and Second Grades

This class will use "Treasure Hunting" as their curriculum. It addresses issues that children face daily, explores the meaning of Unitarian Universalist principles and values and emphasizes an accepting and caring community. A team of dedicated volunteers leads the class aided by classroom helpers. Drama, music, stories, art and games embellish the lessons.

Third and Fourth Grades

A "Stepping Stone Year" is based on the premise that religion helps people find answers to life's important questions. The children will explore beginning myths, stories that science tells us, units on birth and death and more. Worship and discussion combine with stories, drama and crafts. A teaching team and classroom aides are present.

Fifth and Sixth Grades

"Traditions with a Wink!" teaches an understanding of UU faith that can replace the vague "anything we want to" statement with "We come from a long tradition of questioning and searching. We come from a long tradition of loving kindness and good works." We have powerful stories and visions of hope to share with our young people as they begin the process of shaping their own faith.

Junior High (7th and 8th)

Through World Religions curriculum and visits to temples, mosques and churches our youth will explore how various faiths answer life's big questions. Learning about St. John's and UU history, having a mentor, exploring what it means to be religious and developing a personal credo statement are part of meeting requirements of the Coming of Age program which 8th graders can elect to complete.

Senior High (YRUU)

Senior High youth meet every Sunday. Young Religious Unitarian Universalists (YRUU) is based on the components of youth leadership, community building social action, worship and learning. All high school students are welcome.

Our Whole Lives (OWL) for Teens

St. John's offers a human sexuality curriculum for teens led by trained presenters outside of Sunday morning programming. The next offering for teens, 7th through 9th grades, will be in early 2005.