As we explored our UU History, we were met by many of the wise men and woman who helped to influence who we, as Unitarian Unilateralists, are today. Those that came before us overcame challenges, introduced new ideas into our society, and encouraged humanity toward a new way of being. They also helped us consider, within in the parameters of Unitarianism and Universalism, our views on morality, the behavioral conduct that differentiates between right or wrong.
Homer Farr, Adjunct Lecturer & Technical Director,B.A., Cleveland State University, specializing in Stagecraft, Lighting Design, Technical Design, was our Guest Speaker for two Sundays in a row (we had so much fun the first time--we asked him to come back the next week!). With a background in Theatre, Homer directed "Ethics Plays" with our group of children and youth. Hypothetical situations were presented at random for our "actors" to explore the "right" or "wrong" of their solutions. Some were more challenging than others to decipher how we felt about them. Sometimes I presented a challenge within a challenge to fully explore how right and wrong can mean many different things. What would you do with the ugly sweater Aunt Meg gave you for your birthday?
The idea that I most often communicated to the children and youth is that the ultimate decider of truth is one's self with the help of our family, friends, and community--and most importantly our UU principles--should we find ourselves unsure of what is right and true. I told them this story and each week we referred back to it.
Emily Williams, author of Mudras: Ancient Gestures to ease Modern Stress aided us in the setting up of the Peace Corner and taught us about the calming nature of mudras. The children and youth loved learning about these gestures: how to do them and what they might be useful for (quelling anxiety before that math test! AHH!). Emily's visit was so very much enjoyed, we all want to have her back very, very soon.
Perhaps you recall your child or youth leaving One Room RE with a rose recently. This is their Peace Rose, a token of how we, as UU kids, can resolve conflict. Emily Williams and I demonstrated how to use "I statements" when in conflict, and how to take responsibility for one's actions. The Peace Rose acts as a "talking stick", ensuring that each party is heard. The Peace Corner will remain in our classroom as a helpful tool. Please stop by to see the artwork of member Jennifer Thomspon, who created a finger labyrinth for mediation for those who require self-soothing in the corner.
Taking it Home Suggestions for Tapestry of Faith:
"A FAMILY RITUAL
Talk each day about the right and wrong you have experienced. Did you each do something good you want to share? Is there somebody in the family you want to thank for a virtuous act? Is there something you wish you had not done that you need to talk about? How can you make tomorrow a better day?
A FAMILY GAME
Create a family round-robin story. It could be about anything. Let one person start and see what happens. When you finish, ask whether the story talks more about good or evil. Try a round-robin story sometime when your family is planning a special day or riding somewhere in a car. Build a story that shows what the day or the rest of the trip will be like. When you are done, decide whether everybody has the same ideas. If not, how can you make a time that everybody enjoys?
FAMILY DISCOVERY
Discover what groups you all belong to. Why are you in them? Do any of the groups work to make our world a better place? Which is the most important group for everybody in the family?"
Additionally, consider Reading Dan Barker's Maybe Right, Maybe Wrong with young readers. This text was presented in one room RE and opened up thoughtful dialogue. Perhaps with the same knowledge of the book, you may invite your child or youth to explore the ethics of a particular situation with you from this framework.
Also, reflect on whether or not a Peace Corner could help in your own home. Do you have a special place in your space that allows a child to reflect and rejuvenate themselves?
This upcoming Sunday is Whole Church Worship where we will turn the "Star Wheel" as the Spring Equinox befalls us. Please join us as a multi-generational community to welcome the warmer weather!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
OUUCRE Featured in February's OMD Up Close
We are honored to have our program featured in the lastest OMD District's Newsletter, Up Close. A special thank you to Lifespan Faith Development & Youth Ministries Consultant, Jan Gartner, for her interest in the program.
Text printed below:
Chalice Circles for Children
Olmsted UU Congregation, North Olmsted, OH
Necessity was the mother of invention this fall at Olmsted UU Congregation when Bethany Ward, Director of Religious Education, had trouble recruiting enough teachers. The success of last year's monthly children's chapel got her thinking: could we offer a vibrant, multi-age, worship-based session every week in place of age-segregated classes? Thus the Chalice Circles program was born! The unifying theme this year is Our Unitarian Universalist Sources.
Children and youth join the adults in the sanctuary for about fifteen minutes each Sunday. Then they head to their own sacred space. Their Order of Service includes Candles of Community (with candles of joy or concern placed on a felt board) and an offering, which will be donated at the end of the year to a recipient chosen by the kids.
Although many of her ideas are original, Bethany makes ample use of concepts and activities from the UUA's Tapestry of Faith series. In particular, "Love Will Guide Us," a curriculum that encourages children to seek guidance in life through the lens of our Sources, and "Love Connects Us," which focuses on how we live our faith in covenanted community, have been valuable resources. She also enjoys stimulating deep conversations by asking "I wonder" questions (from the Spirit Play religious education model – see http://www.spiritplay.net/). Involvement of congregants comes through monthly "Getting to Know You" Sundays: during a session about world religions, for example, Bethany invited a member to lead the children in yoga and body prayer.
Bethany notes that the Chalice Circles program reasonably accommodates week to week variations in age range and group size. The worship format and familiar Order of Service have helped her to establish a welcoming environment filled with ritual and faith. Bethany loves her role as kids' worship planner and leader. What began as a solution to a teacher recruitment problem has turned into a fabulous way for Bethany to nurture her relationships with the children and youth of OUUC while watching them grow in their UU identity.
Text printed below:
Chalice Circles for Children
Olmsted UU Congregation, North Olmsted, OH
Necessity was the mother of invention this fall at Olmsted UU Congregation when Bethany Ward, Director of Religious Education, had trouble recruiting enough teachers. The success of last year's monthly children's chapel got her thinking: could we offer a vibrant, multi-age, worship-based session every week in place of age-segregated classes? Thus the Chalice Circles program was born! The unifying theme this year is Our Unitarian Universalist Sources.
Children and youth join the adults in the sanctuary for about fifteen minutes each Sunday. Then they head to their own sacred space. Their Order of Service includes Candles of Community (with candles of joy or concern placed on a felt board) and an offering, which will be donated at the end of the year to a recipient chosen by the kids.
Although many of her ideas are original, Bethany makes ample use of concepts and activities from the UUA's Tapestry of Faith series. In particular, "Love Will Guide Us," a curriculum that encourages children to seek guidance in life through the lens of our Sources, and "Love Connects Us," which focuses on how we live our faith in covenanted community, have been valuable resources. She also enjoys stimulating deep conversations by asking "I wonder" questions (from the Spirit Play religious education model – see http://www.spiritplay.net/). Involvement of congregants comes through monthly "Getting to Know You" Sundays: during a session about world religions, for example, Bethany invited a member to lead the children in yoga and body prayer.
Bethany notes that the Chalice Circles program reasonably accommodates week to week variations in age range and group size. The worship format and familiar Order of Service have helped her to establish a welcoming environment filled with ritual and faith. Bethany loves her role as kids' worship planner and leader. What began as a solution to a teacher recruitment problem has turned into a fabulous way for Bethany to nurture her relationships with the children and youth of OUUC while watching them grow in their UU identity.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
"Let none forget the joys and griefs that mark each path of life"
February has had us looking at our own story--our history, how that history shapes our intrinsic UU Values, and how those values shape our future. In essence, we have been looking at the evolution of time within our religion. How does this pertain to our UU Sources? By recognizing that we are inspired by those wise men and women who came before us while simultaneously acknowledging that Unitarian Universalism is very much a living tradition that we are called to nurture.
The children's version of Source no. Two states that we are inspired by the women and men of long ago and today whose lives remind us to be courageously loving. The women and men of our history shaped our principles but what of the women and men of today? How do we seek inspiration from their efforts in defining our faith tradition as we move to the future? On February 13, we again acknowledged the Standing on the Side of Love campaign by creating thank you valentines for the UU Arizona protesters jailed on July 29th of last year (cases were later either dismissed or defendants found "not guilty"). It is through their modern day actions that we hear the call to continue to define how one is to be courageously loving.
As we look back, we also look forward. The children and youth of OUUC created a Time Capsule of our current principles, values, accomplishments, items special to us, as well as, our future wishes for our church home. This capsule was filled, decorated, and is to be placed in the historic bell tower with firm directions that it not be opened for many years to come. We reflected: How will we change as individuals? How will our religion evolve over this allotted time? What actions of ours will inspire future Unitarian Universalists?
Love Surrounds Us, a Tapestry of Faith Program for children, invites us to take this home:
"Through the introduction of some Unitarian and Universalist historical figures, participants learned how searching for what is true has been part of our traditions for hundreds of years. Participants made a paper chain timeline, beginning in the year 0, to represent our long history. ...[We are] a religion that has long, deep roots—all the way back to the 3rd century Common Era."
EXPLORE THE TOPIC TOGETHER. Talk about... how our religion was spread in early America by itinerant preachers. These ministers rode horses, slept outside, and often did not get enough to eat. What is important in your family? Are there any causes for which you would sacrifice your comforts? What would you be willing to sacrifice for your religion? How important is your church to your family? If you had to move where there were not any UU congregations, what would you do for your spiritual growth, nourishment, and community? If you wanted to interest others in our congregation or in Unitarian Universalism, what would you say or do?
Try...
A Family Adventure. The next time your family travels to another part of the country, see if you can go see another Unitarian Universalist congregation. Is it different than yours? The same? How old is the church where they meet? In the 1800s, how would people have reached this church? If your family travels often, consider keeping a journal to record the locations of churches you have visited and your thoughts about each one.
Family Discovery. Check out the UUA website for information about congregations all across the country. Explore the UUA bookstore for books about our tradition. Look in your congregational library for books on our history. If your church does not have a lending library, locate your UUA District office and website via the UUA website. District offices often lend books and will send them in the mail if you do not live close by.
A Family Ritual. This Day in Unitarian Universalist History by Frank Schulman (Skinner House Books, 2004) provides anniversaries and milestones from our religious tradition. Read the day's entries at a family meal each day."
Looking forward to a more immediate future:
March RE Calendar: A Continued Look at Source #2
3/6: More on Ethics (or "Just how do the women and men of long ago and today remind us to be courageously loving?")
3/13 Asking the Big Questions: How our fore-mothers and fore-fathers sought to seek answers. Guest Speaker: Emily Williams
3/20: Whole Church Worship Multi-generational service
3/27: Asking the Big Questions II: How we can use what we know to aid in our own search
Social Justice Sunday: TBD but will incorporate itself into month's lesson plan
*Title of Blog Post taken from Singing the Living Tradition: When We Are Gathered #359, Words: Grace Lewis-McLaren; Music: Charles Hubert Hastings Parry
The children's version of Source no. Two states that we are inspired by the women and men of long ago and today whose lives remind us to be courageously loving. The women and men of our history shaped our principles but what of the women and men of today? How do we seek inspiration from their efforts in defining our faith tradition as we move to the future? On February 13, we again acknowledged the Standing on the Side of Love campaign by creating thank you valentines for the UU Arizona protesters jailed on July 29th of last year (cases were later either dismissed or defendants found "not guilty"). It is through their modern day actions that we hear the call to continue to define how one is to be courageously loving.
As we look back, we also look forward. The children and youth of OUUC created a Time Capsule of our current principles, values, accomplishments, items special to us, as well as, our future wishes for our church home. This capsule was filled, decorated, and is to be placed in the historic bell tower with firm directions that it not be opened for many years to come. We reflected: How will we change as individuals? How will our religion evolve over this allotted time? What actions of ours will inspire future Unitarian Universalists?
Love Surrounds Us, a Tapestry of Faith Program for children, invites us to take this home:
"Through the introduction of some Unitarian and Universalist historical figures, participants learned how searching for what is true has been part of our traditions for hundreds of years. Participants made a paper chain timeline, beginning in the year 0, to represent our long history. ...[We are] a religion that has long, deep roots—all the way back to the 3rd century Common Era."
EXPLORE THE TOPIC TOGETHER. Talk about... how our religion was spread in early America by itinerant preachers. These ministers rode horses, slept outside, and often did not get enough to eat. What is important in your family? Are there any causes for which you would sacrifice your comforts? What would you be willing to sacrifice for your religion? How important is your church to your family? If you had to move where there were not any UU congregations, what would you do for your spiritual growth, nourishment, and community? If you wanted to interest others in our congregation or in Unitarian Universalism, what would you say or do?
Try...
A Family Adventure. The next time your family travels to another part of the country, see if you can go see another Unitarian Universalist congregation. Is it different than yours? The same? How old is the church where they meet? In the 1800s, how would people have reached this church? If your family travels often, consider keeping a journal to record the locations of churches you have visited and your thoughts about each one.
Family Discovery. Check out the UUA website for information about congregations all across the country. Explore the UUA bookstore for books about our tradition. Look in your congregational library for books on our history. If your church does not have a lending library, locate your UUA District office and website via the UUA website. District offices often lend books and will send them in the mail if you do not live close by.
A Family Ritual. This Day in Unitarian Universalist History by Frank Schulman (Skinner House Books, 2004) provides anniversaries and milestones from our religious tradition. Read the day's entries at a family meal each day."
Looking forward to a more immediate future:
March RE Calendar: A Continued Look at Source #2
3/6: More on Ethics (or "Just how do the women and men of long ago and today remind us to be courageously loving?")
3/13 Asking the Big Questions: How our fore-mothers and fore-fathers sought to seek answers. Guest Speaker: Emily Williams
3/20: Whole Church Worship Multi-generational service
3/27: Asking the Big Questions II: How we can use what we know to aid in our own search
Social Justice Sunday: TBD but will incorporate itself into month's lesson plan
*Title of Blog Post taken from Singing the Living Tradition: When We Are Gathered #359, Words: Grace Lewis-McLaren; Music: Charles Hubert Hastings Parry
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Give Back What You Take: How Social Justice is Intrinsically Woven into the Fabric of OUUCRE
One Sunday a month, OUUC RE practices the mission of Social Justice. Social Justice activities provide tangible ways for our children and youth to understand Unitarian Universalism as a living tradition while experientially examining its principles of affirming and promoting the inherent worth and dignity of every person and promoting justice, equity, and compassion in human relations.
This past week we married our "Getting To Know You Sundays" with our "Social Justice Sunday" by inviting the Chair of OUUC's Social Justice Committee to our program to aid us in assembling personal care kits for the Homeless Stand Down of InterAct Cleveland.
In the weeks prior, the call went out from the Religious Education Department and the Social Justice Committee to collect warm weather gear, monetary donations, and toiletries. By January 30th, OUUC donated $130, a plethora of coats, boots, scarves, and mittens, 21 male personal care kits, and 12 female personal care kits to the cause.
An assembly line was formed in Coe Hall on the day of assembling the personal care kits. Each child or youth was assigned a station--one at shampoo, one at facial tissue, etc.--and each kit was loaded down the line. Watching the table fill with the kits inspired and encouraged us in our efforts.
The definition of the Transcendent means varied things to a Unitarian Universalist. In the month of January we explored the idea of Wonder as the Transcendent, that higher purpose to which we are called. This past Social Justice Sunday we pondered how Mission may be that which draws us together, calls us to do mighty and great things, and connects us to our own personal understanding of the Divine.
Our next Social Justice Sunday is February 13, 2011. We will explore Love as Justice as we work in communion with the larger congregation in Standing on the Side of Love.
Upcoming RE Calendar:
Feb 6: Source 2--A Universal Look at Unitarian Universalist History: We seek inspiration from our Heritage
Feb 13: Standing on the Side of Love Social Justice Sunday
Feb 20: Source 2--Could be Right, Could Be Wrong: We seek inspiration from Wise Thinkers
Feb 27: Source 2--Looking Forward: We seek inspiration by being Active Creators of our Faith
This past week we married our "Getting To Know You Sundays" with our "Social Justice Sunday" by inviting the Chair of OUUC's Social Justice Committee to our program to aid us in assembling personal care kits for the Homeless Stand Down of InterAct Cleveland.
In the weeks prior, the call went out from the Religious Education Department and the Social Justice Committee to collect warm weather gear, monetary donations, and toiletries. By January 30th, OUUC donated $130, a plethora of coats, boots, scarves, and mittens, 21 male personal care kits, and 12 female personal care kits to the cause.
An assembly line was formed in Coe Hall on the day of assembling the personal care kits. Each child or youth was assigned a station--one at shampoo, one at facial tissue, etc.--and each kit was loaded down the line. Watching the table fill with the kits inspired and encouraged us in our efforts.
The definition of the Transcendent means varied things to a Unitarian Universalist. In the month of January we explored the idea of Wonder as the Transcendent, that higher purpose to which we are called. This past Social Justice Sunday we pondered how Mission may be that which draws us together, calls us to do mighty and great things, and connects us to our own personal understanding of the Divine.
Our next Social Justice Sunday is February 13, 2011. We will explore Love as Justice as we work in communion with the larger congregation in Standing on the Side of Love.
Upcoming RE Calendar:
Feb 6: Source 2--A Universal Look at Unitarian Universalist History: We seek inspiration from our Heritage
Feb 13: Standing on the Side of Love Social Justice Sunday
Feb 20: Source 2--Could be Right, Could Be Wrong: We seek inspiration from Wise Thinkers
Feb 27: Source 2--Looking Forward: We seek inspiration by being Active Creators of our Faith
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Who We Are and What We Do
Our Second UU Source reminds us that we seek guidance from the women and men of long ago and today whose lives remind us to be courageously loving. Our ancestors shape who we are today and influence us in shaping tomorrow. Often times the road isn't easy.
Obstacles and challenges are a very real, and often times very frustrating, part of one's journey. How do we overcome them with grace and determination? To explore this concept, our OUUC children and youth created their own obstacle course to navigate. Buckets, yardsticks, chairs, and one globe (the challenge: find the Gulf of Mexico!) were laid out and a goal was put forth--get your one full bucket of pasta to fill the other, one cupful at a time.
After a brief reflection, we donned our best trash bag coveralls to feed our teammates pudding cups...blindfolded! What a delightful chaos! As we saw, challenges are not always to be feared. Sometimes they are simply sidesteps calling us to think creatively, or encouraging our devotion to our determined goal, or strengthening our resolve, character, and commitment.
Nineteenth Century UU theologian, Elizabeth Blackwell, met many challenges along her path to become the first female doctor in the United States. One Room RE explored her life this past week. How many others of those wise women and men overcame adversity to become another rich chapter in UU History? We will continue to explore them in the month of February.
While our OUUC children and youth explore who we are, I'd like to take a moment to share with you what we do--in One Room RE, that is. One Room RE has been a presence in the OUUC RE program one Sunday a month long before I came to the position. It is only this past fall that it became the model that it is today.
One Room RE meets each week in the elementary classroom of our RE Wing. Children ages Pre-K to Sr. Hi participate. The diversity in age can create challenges for the program but more so, the disparity enriches the program. We are truly learning and engaging with each other in true community, learning to be considerate of the many different needs of the individuals within.
Each Sunday, the children and youth of the program begin in the Sanctuary for the first fifteen minutes to worship with their entire community. Once released to the One Room RE classroom, they are usually ready to move their bodies. We always begin with an Energy Break. This could be singing, dancing, body prayers, or playing brief games. Once our wiggles are out, we settle into our rhythm with a chalice lighting. I consistently use the same one for the month, posting it on newsprint, allowing each participant to engage in the words in their own way.
We then engage in our own candles of community, with felt candles "alight" on purple velvet. While some children may do candles of community in the Sanctuary in the early morning, I find that repeating the ritual cements and solidifies us as our own community. We can encourage, delight, and grieve with one another and I may personally express all of this with each of them, building trust and relationship.
After a brief introduction on our topic, we are ready to move again. I call this approach to worship the "Sesame Street Way": each element in their Order of Service is brief and engaging, some being still and meditative, while others are lively and engaging. Keeping a consistent rhythm with the order of service each week provides the children with the structure they need to follow in the flow and routine of each individual program.
After each period of movement, we have brief reflections. Most games that I introduce have some type of relevancy to the topic or theme of the week. Children are encouraged to answer questions and share their thoughts.
We are a conventental community, bound by our promises and not by set rules. When we are distracted or have forgotten ourselves, we simply refer to our Chalice Circle Covenant, reaffirming the promises we've made to one another. The Quiet Coyote is our only strict disciplinarian and its delightful to see that if the Coyote has been started by someone to regain order, even the smallest of us will raise his or her hand to demonstrate that the time has come to quiet ourselves.
Nearing the end of our one hour program, we have a Cooperation Feast. Children are invited to work together to place a small snack around the table. Water or juice is poured thoughtfully, tasks are directed with quiet and mindfulness, and once we are all seated, we engage in a story while we enjoy our refreshments.
Clean up and Closing Circle end our weekly program. During Closing Circle, we reiterate the lessons of our morning, wish one another well, and express our desire to see one another soon. Children and Youth must be released by me so that we exit as a community, just as we entered as one.
Our program is a unique and enriching one. We are able to truly learn what it means to be a part of a free church where we honor our community covenant while exploring ourselves as individuals. If you have questions about the program, you may email me, Bethany Ward, DRE, at dre@olmsteduu.org
To close, I would like to encourage you to talk to your children about a time in your own life when you reached a goal despite many obstacles. How did you handle the adversity? What inspired you to continue pursuing your goal?
Tapestry of Faith's Love Connects Us invites you to "share others' stories of adversity and challenge by watching videos of movies such as Willow, Field of Dreams, Rocky, or Hoosiers. After the movie, talk about the obstacles the characters faced and how they were able to overcome them or work around them. Share ideas about what may have driven the characters to continue in the quest of their dream even when it seemed hopeless. Finally, talk about how the characters overcoming these obstacles helped other people".
I would like to recommend a book by an author that has been influential for me on my own journey: M.J. Ryan. The book A Grateful Heart: Daily Blessings for the Evening Meal from Buddha to the Beatles, includes many words of wisdom, divided seasonally, that your family may enjoy at mealtime. Consider combining this book with the ritual adapted from the tradition of the Thanksgiving Bowl or marry both to the suggestion of UU Religious Educators Michelle Richards and Lynn Ungar: Pass a basket of stones around for each family member to select one. While they hold a stone in the palm of their hand, invite each person to share something (or someone) that makes them feel stronger or keeps them going when they need help or assistance.
This week, January 30th, the children and youth will be assembling Personal Care Kits for the Homeless Standdown for our Social Justice Project of the month. We are still accepting donations of toiletries for this cause.
Until next week, may you find the courage, inspiration, and community support to work through the obstacles that appear in your life...
Obstacles and challenges are a very real, and often times very frustrating, part of one's journey. How do we overcome them with grace and determination? To explore this concept, our OUUC children and youth created their own obstacle course to navigate. Buckets, yardsticks, chairs, and one globe (the challenge: find the Gulf of Mexico!) were laid out and a goal was put forth--get your one full bucket of pasta to fill the other, one cupful at a time.
After a brief reflection, we donned our best trash bag coveralls to feed our teammates pudding cups...blindfolded! What a delightful chaos! As we saw, challenges are not always to be feared. Sometimes they are simply sidesteps calling us to think creatively, or encouraging our devotion to our determined goal, or strengthening our resolve, character, and commitment.
Nineteenth Century UU theologian, Elizabeth Blackwell, met many challenges along her path to become the first female doctor in the United States. One Room RE explored her life this past week. How many others of those wise women and men overcame adversity to become another rich chapter in UU History? We will continue to explore them in the month of February.
While our OUUC children and youth explore who we are, I'd like to take a moment to share with you what we do--in One Room RE, that is. One Room RE has been a presence in the OUUC RE program one Sunday a month long before I came to the position. It is only this past fall that it became the model that it is today.
One Room RE meets each week in the elementary classroom of our RE Wing. Children ages Pre-K to Sr. Hi participate. The diversity in age can create challenges for the program but more so, the disparity enriches the program. We are truly learning and engaging with each other in true community, learning to be considerate of the many different needs of the individuals within.
Each Sunday, the children and youth of the program begin in the Sanctuary for the first fifteen minutes to worship with their entire community. Once released to the One Room RE classroom, they are usually ready to move their bodies. We always begin with an Energy Break. This could be singing, dancing, body prayers, or playing brief games. Once our wiggles are out, we settle into our rhythm with a chalice lighting. I consistently use the same one for the month, posting it on newsprint, allowing each participant to engage in the words in their own way.
We then engage in our own candles of community, with felt candles "alight" on purple velvet. While some children may do candles of community in the Sanctuary in the early morning, I find that repeating the ritual cements and solidifies us as our own community. We can encourage, delight, and grieve with one another and I may personally express all of this with each of them, building trust and relationship.
After a brief introduction on our topic, we are ready to move again. I call this approach to worship the "Sesame Street Way": each element in their Order of Service is brief and engaging, some being still and meditative, while others are lively and engaging. Keeping a consistent rhythm with the order of service each week provides the children with the structure they need to follow in the flow and routine of each individual program.
After each period of movement, we have brief reflections. Most games that I introduce have some type of relevancy to the topic or theme of the week. Children are encouraged to answer questions and share their thoughts.
We are a conventental community, bound by our promises and not by set rules. When we are distracted or have forgotten ourselves, we simply refer to our Chalice Circle Covenant, reaffirming the promises we've made to one another. The Quiet Coyote is our only strict disciplinarian and its delightful to see that if the Coyote has been started by someone to regain order, even the smallest of us will raise his or her hand to demonstrate that the time has come to quiet ourselves.
Nearing the end of our one hour program, we have a Cooperation Feast. Children are invited to work together to place a small snack around the table. Water or juice is poured thoughtfully, tasks are directed with quiet and mindfulness, and once we are all seated, we engage in a story while we enjoy our refreshments.
Clean up and Closing Circle end our weekly program. During Closing Circle, we reiterate the lessons of our morning, wish one another well, and express our desire to see one another soon. Children and Youth must be released by me so that we exit as a community, just as we entered as one.
Our program is a unique and enriching one. We are able to truly learn what it means to be a part of a free church where we honor our community covenant while exploring ourselves as individuals. If you have questions about the program, you may email me, Bethany Ward, DRE, at dre@olmsteduu.org
To close, I would like to encourage you to talk to your children about a time in your own life when you reached a goal despite many obstacles. How did you handle the adversity? What inspired you to continue pursuing your goal?
Tapestry of Faith's Love Connects Us invites you to "share others' stories of adversity and challenge by watching videos of movies such as Willow, Field of Dreams, Rocky, or Hoosiers. After the movie, talk about the obstacles the characters faced and how they were able to overcome them or work around them. Share ideas about what may have driven the characters to continue in the quest of their dream even when it seemed hopeless. Finally, talk about how the characters overcoming these obstacles helped other people".
I would like to recommend a book by an author that has been influential for me on my own journey: M.J. Ryan. The book A Grateful Heart: Daily Blessings for the Evening Meal from Buddha to the Beatles, includes many words of wisdom, divided seasonally, that your family may enjoy at mealtime. Consider combining this book with the ritual adapted from the tradition of the Thanksgiving Bowl or marry both to the suggestion of UU Religious Educators Michelle Richards and Lynn Ungar: Pass a basket of stones around for each family member to select one. While they hold a stone in the palm of their hand, invite each person to share something (or someone) that makes them feel stronger or keeps them going when they need help or assistance.
This week, January 30th, the children and youth will be assembling Personal Care Kits for the Homeless Standdown for our Social Justice Project of the month. We are still accepting donations of toiletries for this cause.
Until next week, may you find the courage, inspiration, and community support to work through the obstacles that appear in your life...
Saturday, January 22, 2011
A Religion of Wonder
And so we've concluded Source No. 5, heeding the guidance of reason and the results of science, by marrying it to Source No. 1, seeking inspiration through direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder. This past week, as we continued with our physical experiments, we learned that the thing that ties together both science and religion is wonder. "I wonder what the stars are?" blends itself into the question, "I wonder how the stars got there?".
Each one of us is a philosopher. All it takes is a questioning mind. Each one of us is also a scientist, making observations and hypotheses about every day natural occurrences, sometimes without even registering those observations. As OUUC religious education students, we brought those together, philosophy and science, to find out just a little bit more about what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist.
Perhaps you'd like to try something at home that we did when we began Source no. 5. Sit quietly with your child in a meditative pose for up to three minutes (or as long as your child is able to do so). When your chime rings, ending your meditations, discuss the things that entered your minds as you sat quietly. I bet that somewhere in your conversation, one or both of you will utter the words, "I wondered...". Ask your child/ren, "What does wondering about these questions tell us about what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist?" Hopefully, they'll have plenty of answers that they've discovered through their own seeking this past month.
Each one of us is a philosopher. All it takes is a questioning mind. Each one of us is also a scientist, making observations and hypotheses about every day natural occurrences, sometimes without even registering those observations. As OUUC religious education students, we brought those together, philosophy and science, to find out just a little bit more about what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist.
Perhaps you'd like to try something at home that we did when we began Source no. 5. Sit quietly with your child in a meditative pose for up to three minutes (or as long as your child is able to do so). When your chime rings, ending your meditations, discuss the things that entered your minds as you sat quietly. I bet that somewhere in your conversation, one or both of you will utter the words, "I wondered...". Ask your child/ren, "What does wondering about these questions tell us about what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist?" Hopefully, they'll have plenty of answers that they've discovered through their own seeking this past month.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Exploring Source Numbers One and Five: Science and Wonder
Written across the chalkboard of Chalice Circle this week were the words, "Pleasure lies not in discovering truth, but in seeking it. — Leo Tolstoy". Seeking truth in science and wonder--and fairness--were exactly what we did.
My goals for the week were to demonstrate the link between scientific inquiry and our own quest for truth and meaning. We acknowledged our inherent need to ask questions by playing 20 questions and I Spy. Of course, we brought this all back to how our UU faith calls us to seek our own personal truths.
Getting back into the "groove" after the Holidays had our OUUC children very energetic and slightly forgetful of the covenant-al promises we've made to one another. This was not a challenge but, more so, an excellent opportunity to refer all of us back to the Chalice Circle Covenant that we created together last fall. Our classroom dynamics have the potential of being extremely complex given the wide age-range of children worshiping together each Sunday. To further connect us as a group, I will begin incorporating exercises from "Teaching Students to Be Peacemakers" by David W. Johnson and Roger T. Johnson, as well as, resources put forth by the United Nations on being Peacemakers in the Global Community. This is a simple example of how our Religious Education Program and its course of experiential learning evolves organically to the needs and desires of its community.
Aside from our reflections on our covenant, we began to speak about Unitarian minister and scientist Joseph Priestley whose story embodies our Unitarian heritage of "seeking the truth in love." We continued our exploration of "wonder" by creating graffiti art on our "Wonder Wall". Next week, January 16th, we will conduct further experiments on air pressure and gravity--those powerful forces working everyday in our lives but remain unseen.
TAKE IT HOME
Talk about... science facts you find amazing. You might share how exciting it was when you discovered that all matter is made out of atoms so tiny they cannot be seen by the eye, or how the light we see from the stars comes from billions of years ago. Let your children know how your ideas about theology and spirituality are tied to your understandings of science, not opposed to them.
Family Discovery. Visit a science museum that has hands-on exhibits and immersive activities for children, and explore the wonders of discovery. Conduct some scientific experiments of your own at home. Many websites suggest easy projects that foster curiosity and promote learning. Try Children's Science Experiment Ideas, Steve Spangler Science, Captain Curiosity Science Experiments, and the How Stuff Works website.
Family Games. Games such as I Spy and Twenty Questions encourage questioning and wonder. To play I Spy, someone starts by saying "I spy with my little eye..." and describes an object visible to all by just its color. They may name a large object (such as a house, a tree, or a sofa) or a small one (an envelope, a pencil, or an earring), as long as everyone playing can see it. The player who guesses the object goes next. In Twenty Questions, one player thinks of a noun/object and the others ask yes/no questions to determine what that object is. Again, the player who guesses correctly goes next. Because they need no game boards, cards, or other paraphernalia, these games are great to play on the road, in an airport, or on a nature hike.
Find a crossword puzzle, word search, and other quizzes on Joseph Priestley on the State of Pennsylvania's history website.
A Family Ritual. Bedtime is a natural time to share our wonder about the mysteries of the world. Consider creating a night-time ritual of asking "wonder" questions: "I wonder how old the light from those stars is" or "I wonder what people are doing on the other side of the Earth where it is daytime already." Your questions need not be answerable; in fact, it is probably best if they are not. Speaking them out loud in the darkness as you cuddle together or just before climbing into bed as you gaze out at the night can elevate wonder questions to a spiritual practice. --Love Connects Us, Michelle Richards and Lynn Ungar
Additionally, the children and I discussed briefly during last week's Candles of Community, the January 8th events in Tuscon, Arizona . If you would like further information on speaking with your children about tragedy, you may go here to read Tracey L. Hurd, Phd. You may also seek additional information at families@uua.org. You may also ask me any questions at dre@olmsteduu.org
Upcoming Events:
One Room RE's Chalice Circle continues to explore our UU Sources with
Jan 16: Continuing the Discussion: Science and Religion (with Fun Science Experiments!!)
Jan 23: Our Heritage's Calling: We are inspired by our UU Ancestors
Jan 30: Social Justice Project of the Month: Personal Care Kits for the Homeless Stand Down
My goals for the week were to demonstrate the link between scientific inquiry and our own quest for truth and meaning. We acknowledged our inherent need to ask questions by playing 20 questions and I Spy. Of course, we brought this all back to how our UU faith calls us to seek our own personal truths.
Getting back into the "groove" after the Holidays had our OUUC children very energetic and slightly forgetful of the covenant-al promises we've made to one another. This was not a challenge but, more so, an excellent opportunity to refer all of us back to the Chalice Circle Covenant that we created together last fall. Our classroom dynamics have the potential of being extremely complex given the wide age-range of children worshiping together each Sunday. To further connect us as a group, I will begin incorporating exercises from "Teaching Students to Be Peacemakers" by David W. Johnson and Roger T. Johnson, as well as, resources put forth by the United Nations on being Peacemakers in the Global Community. This is a simple example of how our Religious Education Program and its course of experiential learning evolves organically to the needs and desires of its community.
Aside from our reflections on our covenant, we began to speak about Unitarian minister and scientist Joseph Priestley whose story embodies our Unitarian heritage of "seeking the truth in love." We continued our exploration of "wonder" by creating graffiti art on our "Wonder Wall". Next week, January 16th, we will conduct further experiments on air pressure and gravity--those powerful forces working everyday in our lives but remain unseen.
TAKE IT HOME
Talk about... science facts you find amazing. You might share how exciting it was when you discovered that all matter is made out of atoms so tiny they cannot be seen by the eye, or how the light we see from the stars comes from billions of years ago. Let your children know how your ideas about theology and spirituality are tied to your understandings of science, not opposed to them.
Family Discovery. Visit a science museum that has hands-on exhibits and immersive activities for children, and explore the wonders of discovery. Conduct some scientific experiments of your own at home. Many websites suggest easy projects that foster curiosity and promote learning. Try Children's Science Experiment Ideas, Steve Spangler Science, Captain Curiosity Science Experiments, and the How Stuff Works website.
Family Games. Games such as I Spy and Twenty Questions encourage questioning and wonder. To play I Spy, someone starts by saying "I spy with my little eye..." and describes an object visible to all by just its color. They may name a large object (such as a house, a tree, or a sofa) or a small one (an envelope, a pencil, or an earring), as long as everyone playing can see it. The player who guesses the object goes next. In Twenty Questions, one player thinks of a noun/object and the others ask yes/no questions to determine what that object is. Again, the player who guesses correctly goes next. Because they need no game boards, cards, or other paraphernalia, these games are great to play on the road, in an airport, or on a nature hike.
Find a crossword puzzle, word search, and other quizzes on Joseph Priestley on the State of Pennsylvania's history website.
A Family Ritual. Bedtime is a natural time to share our wonder about the mysteries of the world. Consider creating a night-time ritual of asking "wonder" questions: "I wonder how old the light from those stars is" or "I wonder what people are doing on the other side of the Earth where it is daytime already." Your questions need not be answerable; in fact, it is probably best if they are not. Speaking them out loud in the darkness as you cuddle together or just before climbing into bed as you gaze out at the night can elevate wonder questions to a spiritual practice. --Love Connects Us, Michelle Richards and Lynn Ungar
Additionally, the children and I discussed briefly during last week's Candles of Community, the January 8th events in Tuscon, Arizona . If you would like further information on speaking with your children about tragedy, you may go here to read Tracey L. Hurd, Phd. You may also seek additional information at families@uua.org. You may also ask me any questions at dre@olmsteduu.org
Upcoming Events:
One Room RE's Chalice Circle continues to explore our UU Sources with
Jan 16: Continuing the Discussion: Science and Religion (with Fun Science Experiments!!)
Jan 23: Our Heritage's Calling: We are inspired by our UU Ancestors
Jan 30: Social Justice Project of the Month: Personal Care Kits for the Homeless Stand Down
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