Children's Religious Exploration (also known as "Sunday School")

During our time together, we help children explore the tenets that Unitarian Universalists hold dear and encourage them to articulate their beliefs. Each month we investigate different Soul Matters or UUA theme to help better understand our roots as Unitarian Universalists as well as explore varied world religious beliefs and practices.

As we move through our sessions together, children participate in developmentally appropriate activities that encourage both community interaction as well as private reflection.  Upon entering the CRE building the children enjoy a brief snack and check in time.  Moving to the circle, the children engage in a developmentally appropriate lesson that mirrors the adult service. Whether reciting a child-friendly covenant with motions, participating in sharing joys and concerns, listening to stories, singing or meditation, the children experience a familiar routine which is designed to help them feel safe through familiarity.  Children are introduced to various members of the congregation as many different people are encouraged to join the DCRE in the lesson.

Each CRE lesson includes activities that promote hands-on experiences or play. Children paint, construct, design, color, play games, etc. in order to make abstract themes more concrete and memorable. During the summer (June – August) children are taken outside as weather permits to play cooperative games and explore the natural world around them. There is an extensive Children’s Library for families to use at their discretion.

We take into account each child’s unique personality and allow them to participate as they feel comfortable.  We reinforce that all people are important and are to be treated with kindness and respect. Children are free to choose not to participate in CRE if they are not comfortable. There are child friendly books and toys in the CLA room if a parent feels more comfortable listening to the service while supporting their child. 

We work closely with the congregation so that the children continue to learn and grow within their spiritual communities.  To this end, the children will participate in some Sunday services (i.e., flower communion, Dia de los Muertos, etc.) to share their creations and thoughts with other members of the congregation.  Children are included in all congregational functions such as Pot-luck Lunches, Bingo nights, lawn parties, Holiday craft making, and campfire chats.  Families are encouraged to build relationships within the congregation at large. 

This program runs from September through August each year.

All children must be out of diapers. Please do not send your child into the CRE building if they have experienced fever or vomiting with the last 24 hours.

There is also a Toddler Room (also multipurpose room) is staffed and available for children under 3 during the Sunday Services.

For more information contact:

Paula Bennet, Director of Children's Religious Exploration