[printprofilepic]Change does not change tradition. It strengthens it. Change is a challenge and an opportunity, not a threat. — Prince Phillip of England
Finding the most beneficial structure, schedule, and model for our ministry to and with children and youth is an invigorating and significant challenge, especially during times of transition.
Perhaps the most obvious and recent transitions are the change to the two- service format and the retirement of your long time Director of Religious Exploration (DRE). In recognition that shared ministry among staff and membership is essential for the vitality of any congregation, making and adjusting to changes takes patience, compassion, resiliency, optimism, and commitment.
The goal of the Religious Exploration committee (REC) is to develop and offer the best RE program possible while supporting and reflecting the vision and mission of the congregation.
The REC and I recognize the present schedule of RE classes affects attendance at the 9:00 service since only one class is meeting at that time. While the RE program is not solely responsible for this imbalance in attendance, a change in scheduling of RE classes may help to balance attendance at both services. A change will hopefully contribute to greater community building for all ages and engender a more welcoming atmosphere for families.
The REC and I have decided on the following change in RE class schedule effective January 10th: All classes except YRUU (senior high) will meet from 10-11 a.m. Below is how we envision the new plan.
- Families attending the 9:00 service go to service together through Time for All Ages. Children and youth leave for “free time” (games, art, projects, playground, children’s chapel) while parents stay in the service. At 10:00 children and youth go to RE classes while parents can attend the Forum, coffee hour, or teach in RE. They leave at 11:00.
- Families attending the 11:00 service come at 10:00. Children and youth go to RE classes while parents go to coffee hour, Forum or teach in RE. At 11:00 families attend service through Time for All Ages. Children leave for “free time” while parents stay in the service. YRUU meets 11-noon. They leave at noon.
- There will be more developmentally appropriate grade levels including the following:
- Preschool-K
- 1-2nd
- 3-4th
- 5-6th
We are seeking two new RE teachers for the pre-K class. If you desire to share your talents and skills with this age group please contact Benette or a member of the RE committee listed below.
Our desire is to have a well-developed and coherent RE program before the hire of the settled DRE. We appreciate the patience, understanding and contributions of all.
Benette Sherman, Interim DRE. RE committee (Erin Boquin, Mark Peterson, Kelly Shea, Jim Cooley, Rev. John Cullinan, Sara Dickens, Benette Sherman)
Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights. — Pauline R. Kezer
Other RE News
November 22 forum—A Comprehensive Safety Policy for the Unitarian Church of Los Alamos: What Is It? Why Is It Necessary? Presented by Benette Sherman, Interim DRE
Parents are especially encouraged to attend this forum to learn more about the Child and Youth Safety Policy, which will be part of the more comprehensive church-wide policy.
Mitten Tree
Every one should start thinking about donating new or gently worn mittens and gloves for the mitten tree, which will hopefully be available for decorating with mittens by November 22 or 29. We’ll collect mittens throughout the holiday season and then give them to a designated organization.
See you in church,
Benette Sherman
