Religious Education
Emerson has programs for children, youth, and adults. Classes offer curricula developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association which challenge the mind, expands the heart, and warms the soul. We endeavor to create an exciting and welcoming environment in which all souls can begin, develop, and continue their lifelong spiritual journey. Our nursery is staffed with a paid childcare giver and a parent volunteer. There is also a rocking chair and a toy box in the foyer for parents who wish to listen to the service there.
Sunday Mornings
Children in preschool through fifth grade are in the sanctuary for the first part of Sunday services. They help collect contributions to the West Valley Food bank, listen to a story, and recite our UU affirmation before being sung out to their classes. Preschool through kindergarten (and some 1st grade) children now meet in room three; grade school children meet in room four. A middle school group usually meets on Sunday mornings during the service in Rev. Anne’s office. Service projects, a Coming of Age program, and occasional social activities are also planned with this group.
Special Events
Intergenerational Services
The Religious Education department coordinates three special worship services during the year: a holiday program in mid-December, an Earth Day service in April, and an RE teacher recognition and RE service in June. This year will also have a Coming of Age Service in March planned by the middle school youth who have chosen to participate in that program.
Service Projects
At different times during the year, classes work on service projects. Some of our past activities have included raising funds for the Heifer project, solar ovens for Darfur, and collecting canned goods and turkeys for needy families on Thanksgiving.
Children’s Choir
Children and youth of all ages have an opportunity to sing for one or two worship services under the direction of Galina Barskaya, Emerson’s music director. Or with one of our talented volunteer musicians.
Field Trips
Field trips are usually scheduled for months with a fifth Sunday.
Mystery Pals
Children and older members of the congregation are paired together to exchange notes and an occasional small gift, with identities only revealed after several weeks at a culminating luncheon.
Family nights
Parent small group Ministries sponsor potluck social evenings one Friday evening a month for the whole Emerson family.
Coming Of Age
Coming of Age is for middle school youth who are ready to make the transition to adolescence. This year they meet with advisors two Sunday evenings a month to learn and experience our Unitarian Universalist history and values, and work toward an expression of his or her unique spiritual journey. Participants in Coming of Age plan and participate in a worship service during which they each present a personal credo statement.
Parent’s Forum
Each Spring we have a parents forum to reflect on the Religious Education program and consider what we may want to drop, continue, or add for the future.
How you can help
The Religious Education program depends on volunteers for all of its activities. The more you are involved, the better our program will be. The RE coordinator and RE Committee are committed to finding creative ways for people to participate using their unique interests, experiences, and talents. The volunteer form on the back of this year’s RE registration suggest areas where we need people to get involved on a regular, occasional, or one time basis. Please give the completion of this form your careful consideration.
