Philosophy of RE
The essential qualities of a good Re volunteer are
Above all, RE volunteers are mentors and companions of young people as they undertake their religious journeys in life.
Seven Principles essential to the spiritual practice of religious exploration:
As Unitarian Universalists, we want to model theological diversity, so our young people will see and understand that many theological beliefs are welcome here. There are UU Christians, atheists, mystics, agnostics, pagans, humanists (and more) among us.
We are all constantly learning, and many Unitarian Universalists continue to evolve their beliefs throughout a lifetime. RE volunteers should avoid absolute statements of belief (“God will answer your prayers”, “UUs don't believe in God”, etc.) and the misunderstanding of Unitarian Universalism, “you can believe anything you want”. We embrace theological diversity, within the framework of our Principles and Sources.
Some tips for volunteers:
DLFD Andrea's key message for planning for Sunday: “Plan tight; lead loose”
Be well prepared for a structured lesson, but be willing and able to let elements go if other things arise.
While the curriculum is important, it’s only part of the experience. Being in relationship with one another, accompanying each other on the journey, and bearing witness to young lives, matter more.
The essential qualities of a good Re volunteer are
- A love of children,
- A sense of wonder about life,
- Empathy and the ability to listen,
- And a willingness more to share who you are than what you know.
Above all, RE volunteers are mentors and companions of young people as they undertake their religious journeys in life.
Seven Principles essential to the spiritual practice of religious exploration:
- Respect the children
- Be true to yourself
- Promote community
- Make it sacred
- Cultivate your soul
- Grow in your faith
- Put down roots
As Unitarian Universalists, we want to model theological diversity, so our young people will see and understand that many theological beliefs are welcome here. There are UU Christians, atheists, mystics, agnostics, pagans, humanists (and more) among us.
We are all constantly learning, and many Unitarian Universalists continue to evolve their beliefs throughout a lifetime. RE volunteers should avoid absolute statements of belief (“God will answer your prayers”, “UUs don't believe in God”, etc.) and the misunderstanding of Unitarian Universalism, “you can believe anything you want”. We embrace theological diversity, within the framework of our Principles and Sources.
Some tips for volunteers:
- Practice self-care so you can be fully present. Take time on Sundays to ground and centre yourself through your own spiritual practice (like meditation or prayer), or by following the Spiritual Preparation if offered for leaders in your lesson plan.
- Rituals such as gathering into a circle, lighting the chalice, and sharing joys and sorrows (or check-in) are part of how we “do” faith, and help young people to know that it is time to settle down and be present, themselves. If you aren’t yet comfortable with these rituals, take some time to practice so that they come naturally.
- Get to know your fellow volunteers. As a community of religious educators, communicate with each other and the DLFD about how you feel things are going. Share your ideas, and let’s work together on challenges.
- Keep each other informed as needed about the health and well-being of the children and youth we serve. Speak to Andrea if you think someone needs more pastoral care than you are able to offer.
DLFD Andrea's key message for planning for Sunday: “Plan tight; lead loose”
Be well prepared for a structured lesson, but be willing and able to let elements go if other things arise.
While the curriculum is important, it’s only part of the experience. Being in relationship with one another, accompanying each other on the journey, and bearing witness to young lives, matter more.