We recognize that parents are the primary religious educators for their children. The Religious Education (RE) program of the Unitarian Church of Sharon aims to support parents and families in this effort.
Our vision is to create a community:
- where our young members are full participants
- which fosters respect, tolerance, strong values, ethical thought and action
- which is safe, fun, and comfortable
- which supports self-realization within a framework of discussion, questioning, and learning
The church provides the underlying curriculum of the RE program. This includes inviting them to participate upstairs for the beginning of each Sunday service, respecting the joys and concerns voiced by our other members each week.
The RE program of the Unitarian Church of Sharon meets every Sunday morning from September through June. The children attend the beginning of the adult service starting at 10:15, and then adjourn downstairs to begin class from 10:35 until 11:30. Parents are asked to pick up their children from class at 11:30.
Please feel free to contact the Director of Religious Education (DRE), Louise Marcoux, or the Youth Coordinator, Sue Bollens, through the RE office at 781 – 784-3652 x3 with any questions or concerns.
Registration
Visitors are always welcome. If you find that you will be attending regularly, we do ask that you register your child. If you have not yet registered your child for this program year, please pick up a form from the RE bulletin board in the vestry and drop off your completed form to the RE Committee mailbox in the church office. You may also download a form here or register online.
The RE program is funded by the operating budget of the church. To supplement the budget for costs such as special mailings and additional supplies, however, we ask that those enrolled pay a fee of $40 per child (or $60 per family).
Scholarships are available confidentially through the minister, RE Committee Chair, or Director of Religious Education (DRE).
Classes
Our classes are grouped according to grade level and meet in separate classrooms.
| Nursery | |
| Preschool-Kindergarten | |
| Grades 1 – 2-3 | |
| Grades 4 – 5 | |
| Grades 6 – 7-8 | |
| If you have questions about your child’s placement, please speak with the Director of Religious Education. | |
Our curricula, obtained through the Unitarian Universalist Association, are designed to present either an overview of several aspects of the Unitarian Universalist principles or focus on a specific area important to Unitarian Universalism. The major themes addressed in our Religious Education program include UU Principles and Purposes, Judeo-Christian Heritage, Earth-based Religions, World Religions, Diversity/Social Justice, Spiritual Practices, and Social Action. Most of the curricula selected are used in many local UU churches. Some are developed by our DRE with the specific needs of a group in mind. Please feel free to bring questions, comments, or concerns to the DRE, any member of the RE Committee, or classroom teachers.
Teachers
Our teachers are caring volunteers: some have many years of experience in this ministry of religious education, others are relative newcomers just embarking on this journey. Most teachers commit to 13 Sundays of religious education over the course of the year – as part of a rotating team of 5 – 6 volunteers. This year-long teaching commitment provides adequate continuity for the children and fosters communication among team members and with families. Participants in this ministry of religious education are also able to balance this experience with participation in adult worship throughout the year.
Religious Education Committee
The RE Committee is responsible for maintaining the RE program. This dedicated group of volunteers meets monthly to ensure happy, productive experiences for our children and young members. The RE Committee works in cooperation with our Director of Religious Education (DRE), Youth Coordinator and the Minister.
General Information
Due to our growing congregation, the after-service coffee hour can be a busy, bustling event. Parents are responsible for supervising their children during coffee hour so that everyone can socialize comfortably and safely.
Information regarding the Religious Education program can be found in the monthly newsletter, the weekly order of service, or on the RE bulletin board. In addition, teachers may send home letters or e-mail throughout the church year to inform parents about specific classroom events or topics. We encourage parents to introduce themselves to the teaching team and/or the Director of Religious Education and to share with them any concerns regarding their child or the program.
