From Lily Rappaport, Developmental Director of Family Ministries
My time as Developmental Director of Family Ministries at UUCM will be concluding at the end of this month. Beginning in July, Judith Hogan will be leading the RE program as the Director of Religious Education. Together, along with the RE Committee, we are working diligently to prepare for next year’s programming and to ensure a smooth staff transition. We are still seeking team leaders and teachers with the goal of fully staffing our program before the end of June. Doing this means that we can enter the new congregation year ready to go. Please consider volunteering in the Religious Education program and to welcome Judith in her new role.
Over the past two years we have done significant work moving toward family ministries, focusing on needs of UUCM families. There have been changes to the Sunday morning experience, with strengthening classroom support and holding regular children’s chapels. We have monthly all age worship services with a new family friendly seating in the Sanctuary, in addition to maintaining the child friendly environment in the Narthex. We hope to continue to find ways for children and families to be connected in the life of the congregation and to create inclusive opportunities for faith development and worship.
As we continue to shelter-in-place, we are committed to discovering ways to better serve our children and families by exploring at-home faith development and building a network for parent support. Online Religious Education classes have been going well and are scheduled to continue through mid-June. Additionally, we have weekly Zoom meetings for parents and caregivers and are developing a list of faith development resources for families to use at home.
A Note from Judith Hogan:
While there are a great many things that are uncertain as a result of COVID-19, one thing that is certain is that plans are in the works for creative and engaging RE programming for both the summer and fall seasons. Collaborative efforts are being made with numerous UU congregations to find the best possible ways to serve our communities. Proactive teams from UUs far and wide are working together to find options for RE programs that will bolster our UU faith and expand our virtual UU community. So, stay well, stay safe, and stay tuned.
Religious Education Calendar
We will be offering the following classes and meetings online.
Sunday Religious Education:
Grades K-3 @ 1:00 pm
Grades 4 & 5 @ 11:00 am
Grades 6 & 7 @ 12:00 pm
Grade 8 @ 12:00 pm
Grade 9 – New Day & Time TBA
Senior Youth – New Day &Time TBA
Wednesdays @ 4pm Check-in/Covenant Group for senior high youth and adults
Wednesdays @ 8pm Check-in for Parents/Caregivers
First Fridays @ 7:30 Soulful Sundown