Religious Education Growth and Learning (REGAL)

Our Religious Education Mission Statement

Religious Education is a Journey, a lifelong process, the spirit and life of the congregation. The search for life's meaning is both religious and spiritual, and is made explicit for all ages in the REGAL program. We encourage a deep exploration of our various personal histories, values, and cultures. In celebrating our differences, we create a supportive environment for the religious growth and learning of every individual. We nurture a strong sense of religious community that embraces all ages.

REGAL Statement of Intent for the Sunday School year 2010-2011

For 2010-2011 participants in REGAL programs will encourage religious development through an exploration of the world religions that form the fabric of our community.  By the end of the year, participants in REGAL will be able to maintain compassion and humanity in relationship with each other and those of differing faiths in the greater community.  In addition  to this larger objective, at the end of the year we expect that our participants will be able (to the best of their ability) to converse knowledgably and respectfully with people of other backgrounds as well as be on the way to developing their own theological and philosophical beliefs in relation to Unitarian Universalist principles and the religious and philosophical tenets in the community around us.

What Do We Teach Our Children?

Unitarian Universalist Principles

 Simply stated, we believe in searching for the truth with an open mind; working for justice, peace, and freedom for all people; practicing democratic principles that recognize the worth and importance of each person; and caring for the earth, the home we share with all living things.

Unitarian and Universalist History

We tell our kids about some of their forebears who tried to make this a better world. Then at least when someone says, "Unitarian Universalist, what's that?" they can answer, "Have you heard of Thomas Jefferson or Susan B. Anthony or Ralph Waldo Emerson?" Of course, more important than giving them a reply is the sense of tradition and identity they'll get from learning our history.

Our Jewish and Christian Heritage

The Bible contains some good lessons, wisdom, and inspiring thoughts. Knowing more about its history will help our children defend their beliefs. This is a Judeo-Christian culture and to be culturally literate, we need to know the myths and symbols and stories in the Bible

World Religions

Knowing about other religions encourages tolerance of other cultures and a feeling of being a world citizen. Our children learn that some religions believe in one God, some believe in many Gods, some believe in no God, and some are combinations of the above. They will learn that monotheism and polytheism and atheism all have something to teach us.

Thinking About the "Big Questions"

We want our children to have a safe place where they can bring life's questions. We may not always know the answers, but we can share our experiences and insights. By doing this, we are teaching our children to honor their own knowing and trust in what they believe. We want them to know that what they believe and how they act on those beliefs gives them the power to shape their own lives and the world in which they live.