[printprofilepic]It’s another New Year—and as we all know, a good time to think about intentions, commitments, and directions. I went to the library in December and saw the book American Grace: How Religion Divides and Unites Us. Based on a 2006-7 survey the book is long and I was somewhat daunted by this. However, excerpts from the book have been on various websites and Robert Putnam, the author of the book, has been interviewed on PBS among other news shows.
One of the results of the survey found that people who attend a congregation on a regular basis are more involved in civic life as volunteers. It isn’t the theology, beliefs, or dogma that contribute to volunteerism. It’s having friends in the congregation and a sense of belonging that contribute to an active civic life. This is true across denominations.
Even people who are not very religious experience a civic boost if they are enmeshed in a religious social network.
Another finding of the survey showed that people who attend services weekly have a higher rate of life satisfaction than others who don’t attend.
This of course, rings true for me and probably for most of you. How do we use these and other findings, such as from the Search Institute (kids involved in a religious community lead healthier lives) and the Exemplary Youth Ministry in our religious education programs?
- If we want our children and youth to be involved in civic life, then keep bringing them on a regular basis.
- If we want our children to reject illegal drugs, underage drinking and other unhealthy behaviors, then keep them affiliated with a religious community.
- If we want our children to have a high satisfaction with life, then help them to get to know people in the congregation.
From September-December the children and youth have been busy with social justice projects, RE classes, a youth con, youth field trips, youth parties, painting Empty Bowls, CROP WALK, and a Solstice ceremony. I give thanks to parents, RE teachers, youth advisors, and other volunteers who made all these successful. I hope from January-June they’ll continue to attend, to be involved, to know adults better, and to think of this community as special and life-affirming.
Have a great 2011!
Benette Sherman
Interim DRE
DATES TO REMEMBER
January 2: No RE classes, one service
January 9: RE classes resume
January 16: Secret Friends Program starts
February 6: Empty Bowls painting in RE
February 13: Secret Friends party from 10-11 a.m. in Robinson Hall
