Coming of Age Program

Unitarian Church of Sharon
4 N. Main St.
Sharon, MA 02067

781-784-3652
E-mail UCS

Coming of Age celebrates the spiritual transition from childhood to adulthood for youth who choose to engage in this year of discernment. We ask our youth, after years of religious education classes, to consider what they have learned and to develop a statement of their religious beliefs at this point in their lives. A parent-youth orientation session is held to launch the program. Each participant works with a mentor throughout the year and meets regularly with the DRE and minister to support this year of exploration. CoA is offered to 8th and 9th graders as an optional program on alternating years with OWL. Sessions are held outside of regular Sunday morning programming. CoA will be offered again in 2009, starting in the fall.

What Does the Program Consist of?
The program is divided into four areas:

• UU Heritage: Learning about the history, belief systems and important leaders in the Unitarian Universalist tradition.

• Service: Undertaking a service project for the larger community and one for the church community.

• Spirituality: Exploring one's own personal beliefs and what Unitarian Universalism means to oneself.

• Social: Enjoying opportunities to participate in fun activities as a group.

Who and What are Mentors?
Mentors are members of the church (not parents of participants), who are paired up with each participant to help guide them through the areas outlined above.

What Happens at the End?
The program culminates with each participant developing his/her own credo statement (a statement of one's personal beliefs) and recognition in a special service.

What is the Time Line?
The program runs from October to May (approximately). Anyone wishing to participate should contact DRE Louise Marcoux or the R.E. Committee Chair.

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