Parents ask me, “How do I bring Religious Education into my home?” My answer to the “how-to’s” of religious education in the home is that the religious journey is a process -- a process which for some is filled with celebration and
ritual, for others quiet reflection, and still others thoughtful discussion or heated debate. As you and
your family grow spiritually; the process for worship at home will change. I suggest to start with the
four steps listed below.

1. Know a simple history of the evolution of UU ideas, symbols, and a statement of the current
principles and purposes.
2. Help your children express the thoughts and feelings they are experiencing. Know how to
communicate with your children involving process as well as content.
3. Reinforce spiritual values and bring the family together by structured observance or celebrations.
Examples are table graces, bedtime prayers and a home worship service.
4. Structure discussions on religious education lessons at home to bring conversation into the home
and your daily family life. Examples of some at home lessons could be UU beliefs/values, our
Jewish and Christian heritage, world religions, peace and social justice.
Remember the mission of UU religious education is not to shape or mold our children’s spiritual development according to some pre-set plan, but to nurture the unfolding of their unique spirituality and to cultivate strong moral character.

NEWS AND EVENTS

Lower Elementary Students on April 4 will enjoy crafts around the topic of Spring, and on April 11 the topic will be “Search for Truth.”

Upper Elementary Students on April 4 will enjoy crafts around the topic of Spring, and on April 11 will decorate reusable grocery bags.

Juniors on April 4 will attend church, and on April 11 the topic will be “Diving into UU Principles.” The students and I would like to send a big thank you to the 2010 Secret Pals which include: Mark Franchett, Rob St. Mary, Lynn Baker-Hunter, Jim Moir, Ann Lipsitz, Vicky Keating, Annie Ginn, Janet Weber, Paul Lipsitz, John Owens, Jud Cole and Sara Hassinger.

Seniors on April 4 will attend church, and on April 11 will meet at the Edmonds’ home at 7:30 PM to continue their study of the New Testament.

Dates to Remember
April 19 - RE Committee meets at 6:30 PM in the RE wing.
May 7- An Intergenerational GAME night in the annex -- (more information to follow).

-Julie Artis, Director, Religious Education