Children & Youth Faith Development Programs
Much preparation has gone into making this year’s faith development programs for children and youth one of excellence. In classes, and as a larger community, we will explore our Unitarian Universalist roots, personal faith beliefs, and how our faith leads us in decision making. Some exciting changes will help all of us achieve greater understanding of what it means to be Unitarian Universalist.
More Information
- New Worship and Class Schedule
- Course Overviews
- Registration for Faith Development
- Church Safety Policies [pdf]
New Worship and Class Schedule
The first Sunday of each month October—June is Multigenerational Worship. This is an opportunity to come together as a congregation to learn through stories, songs, and reflection. On this Sunday, childcare is available in the first floor classroom. There are no other classes for children or adults. Rather, we will focus on coming together for worship and a post-worship meal to build overall community.
Worship Service One runs from 10:00 a.m.-11:15 a.m.
Children & Youth Faith Development takes place on all Sundays except the first Sunday of each month and major holiday weekends. Children in first—eighth grade begin in worship with their families at 10:00 a.m.; younger children report directly to class. High school youth group is invited to attend the first half hour of worship. Youth group officially starts at 10:30 a.m. Classes for preschool—youth group end at 11:30 a.m., offering parents/guardians some time after worship to grab a quick cup of coffee and conversation.
Worship Service Two meets from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., beginning in the fall of 2011.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) is a sexuality education program for students in 7th—9th grade. The program will likely gather a few times during the year for retreats and some late Sunday morning sessions. Exact times and schedule have yet to be determined. A more complete course description is in the next section. If you are interested in this class, please note it on the registration form. The church office will follow up with your family about the exact schedule closer to the class start date.
Nursery Care is available in the first floor classroom all Sunday morning long. Parents/guardians are welcome in the nursery at any time.
Return to children and youth menu.
What is Taught in Children & Youth Faith Development in 2011-2012?
Nursery
The nursery is staffed with childcare providers each week. The nursery has toys, crafts, and books for the children to use. Parents are welcome in the nursery at any time.
Preschool—Around the Church, Around the Year
Children look for a place to belong and feel safe; church can be that place. Through exploring the church building, UU beliefs, and meeting people who worship at UUCL, children will discover this is a place for them.
First & Second Grades—Wonderful Welcome
We continually welcome others into our lives: peers, teachers, friends, family, strangers, and even animals, nature, and experiences. We welcome by sharing intangible gifts, those positive qualities we have inside us such as kindness, love, and empathy. This year, we’ll explore how we welcome others and the role we play in our communities.
Third & Fourth Grades—Spirit of Adventure
Our UU Principles can be an everyday life practice for spiritual living. Spirit of Adventure makes the Principles tangible. Children will learn through games that good sportsmanship is a way to promote “dignity and worth”; classroom visitors will talk about how faith helps with decision making; field trips and other activities will give students tactile ways to explore class topics.
Fifth & Sixth Grades—Riddle & Mystery
This year, the students in fifth and sixth grades will engage in a search for answers about where we came from, if God exists, what happens after death, the fairness of life, and what purpose the UU faith holds for them. Each week a class “broadcasting team” will explore one of life’s Big Questions through news skits. Throughout the year, the class will do service projects to better understand the importance of engagement in the community as part of spiritual practice and making the world a fairer place to live.
Seventh & Eighth Grades—Neighboring Faiths and Popcorn Theology
Religions oftentimes share similar values, historical figures, and/or beliefs. What does the UU faith share in common with Catholics, Hindus, Baptists, and fundamentalists? What are some of the things that provide a rich tapestry of diverse beliefs? The students will build on the religions they learned about last year as they explore more faith traditions. Along the way, we’ll visit other UU congregations to see the diversity of UU worship services and to meet other UU youth. Through the use of films in Popcorn Theology, students will discuss how their sense of right and wrong can help them with decision-making.
Seventh—Ninth Grade—Our Whole Lives (OWL)
OWL is a comprehensive sexuality education program. An emphasis is put on decision-making, how to build and maintain a healthy relationship, knowing personal boundaries, knowledge of sexual contraception, anatomy, and accurate information on sexually transmitted infections. There will be an upcoming parent/guardian meeting about the class schedule and cost (anticipated to be about $50/youth). Please note your family’s interest in the program on the registration form so the church office can follow up with you.
Ninth—Twelfth Grade—Youth Group
When asked what is important about youth group, many youth respond “friendship.” This community provides teens with a place to worship, grow, lead, and discuss ideas together. In youth group, teens have an opportunity to explore different forms of leadership through planning Sunday discussions, worship services, activities, and fundraisers to support church programs.
Return to children and youth menu.
Registration for Children and Youth 2011-2012 Faith Development
To register for 2011-12 classes, download a printable registration form here, or contact the office at 717-393-1733. Please mail your registration forms to Kate Prisby, Unitarian Universalist Church of Lancaster, 538 West Chestnut Street, Lancaster, PA 17603.
