Religious Education
Unitarian Universalists believe that the search for truth and meaning is a life-long process. The purpose of Religious Exploration at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Durango is to promote spiritual, emotional, and intellectual growth among fellowship members and friends of all ages. We offer a variety of diverse and inclusive programs that support UU principles.
In February of 2011, UUFD kicked off the RE program for youth 6th to 12th grade. When there are enough youth, the group will be divided into middle and high school age groups. Two advisors coordinate the program; the lead advisor with 16 years experience, the assistant an energetic newcomer. Based on past experience, the foundation of the group is built on efforts to empower the youth while providing accessible and consistent advisement. The youth are given the opportunity and encouragement to create a comfortable environment for themselves including worship ritual, covenant agreements, and input for their sharing, study and activity. The advisors pay attention to keeping a balance of the YRUU five elements of a successful youth group -bonding, leadership, service/social action, education and worship.
In the church year 2011-2012, we studied and/or experienced 9 world religions in Durango - visiting Buddhist, Jewish, Hindu, Quaker, Lutheran, and Catholic centers/churches and studying UU, Islam and Pagan/Native Peoples spirituality. In the year 2012-2013, we put the 7 UU principles to work with service projects in the Durango community - for example various projects at the local homeless shelter, voter registration/services, folding 400 of 1000 cranes so far, interviewing a local astronomer, volunteering at the local humane society, participating in PRISM - the local GLBTQ college organization.
In spite of the long distances in our district, the youth have traveled to several district "cons" and intend to continue their participation and leadership in Youth Programming beyond UUFD.
Great thought and care is devoted to building relationships with and among these young people at this vigorous and formative stage in their lives both at church, in the community and beyond.
Adult RE: We currently are in the process of recruiting members for adult RE covenant groups. The covenant groups will consist of 8-10 members, will meet at least monthly, and will focus on themes decided by the group. More detailed information will be available in the coming months.
In the church year 2011-2012, we studied and/or experienced 9 world religions in Durango - visiting Buddhist, Jewish, Hindu, Quaker, Lutheran, and Catholic centers/churches and studying UU, Islam and Pagan/Native Peoples spirituality. In the year 2012-2013, we put the 7 UU principles to work with service projects in the Durango community - for example various projects at the local homeless shelter, voter registration/services, folding 400 of 1000 cranes so far, interviewing a local astronomer, volunteering at the local humane society, participating in PRISM - the local GLBTQ college organization.
In spite of the long distances in our district, the youth have traveled to several district "cons" and intend to continue their participation and leadership in Youth Programming beyond UUFD.
Great thought and care is devoted to building relationships with and among these young people at this vigorous and formative stage in their lives both at church, in the community and beyond.
Adult RE: We currently are in the process of recruiting members for adult RE covenant groups. The covenant groups will consist of 8-10 members, will meet at least monthly, and will focus on themes decided by the group. More detailed information will be available in the coming months.