Living the Theme: First Principle, Welcome to All

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September 8:  Welcome and Getting to Know You

September 15: Covenanting

September 22: Inherent Worth and Dignity

Reflections on Welcome 

“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals. When we pool our strength and share the work and responsibility, we can welcome many people, even those in deep distress, and perhaps help them find self-confidence and inner healing.”
― Jean Vanier, Community And Growth

“You can sit with us. 
You can live beside us.
You can play your music.
You can listen to mine. 
We can dance together.
We can share our food.
We can keep an eye on each other’s kids. 
We can teach each other new languages.
We can respect traditions.
We can build new ones.
You can ask for a cup of sugar.
You can ask for directions. 
You can tell me when things are hard.
You can tell me when beautiful things happen.
We can listen to stories.
We can disagree.
We can agree. 
We can come to understandings.
You can wear what you want.
You can pray as you feel compelled to.
You can love who you want.
You can sit with us.” 
― Elizabeth Tambascio

Goals

  • Get to know each other better
  • Set group expectations
  • Introduce theme 
  • Plan year together (youth groups)

Taking it Home

You can help your child or youth adjust to the start of the year by encouraging them to participate each Sunday. Friendships are built over time and while not every Sunday will be ‘fun’ for them, we make great effort to build community each week.

For elementary ages you might talk about which station they most enjoy or are most interested in. We offer three stations:

  • Head is a quiet space with meditative activities, journaling materials and books on the theme
  • Heart is a rambunctious space with group games, drama, and music
  • Hands is our art space with craft opportunities

For youth groups, encourage them to speak up about what matters to them. We value the input and leadership of our youth. They have a chance to help shape the year, and group dynamics are built over time.

RE Stories for the Month

“Maya’s Questions,” Wonderful Welcome, Tapestry of Faith, UUA

“The Messiah is Among You,” Moral Tales, Tapestry of Faith, UUA