Faith Formation for Children & Youth

UCE is committed to creating a welcoming space for children and youth to worship, learn, and play together, and for people of differing generations to get to know one another, whether in person or virtually during this time of COVID-19. Until it is safe to gather in larger groups, we will be offering ways to connect virtually and in person in small groups. Parents can decide which opportunities are appropriate based on their comfort level of the physical distancing guidelines. Regular participation, whether virtual or in person, is important so our young people can form friendships and a sense of community. 

What programs are being offered?
Programs are organized by age and grade level in school/homeschool. This year, our virtual sessions will be for preschool/k/1st, 2nd-5th, and 6th-8th. High school youth participate in youth group. In general, children should attend the same grade level at church as they attend at school/homeschool. 

The Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education Program is offered to various age groups on alternating years. This year, an alternative program, Taking Flight, will be offered for 7th-9th grade youth. 

What will my child be taught?
Our Faith Formation Program for Children and Youth is structured to be appropriate to developmental levels and to explore: 

Who leads the programs?
Programs are mostly taught by trained volunteers. Some volunteer teachers are parents of children and youth currently enrolled in our classes, and others are members of the congregation at large. All volunteers are screened before working with our young people. 

Can I volunteer to help?
Volunteer help is almost always needed and very much appreciated! Adults are needed to assist virtual and in-person programs, social events, social justice activities, and special projects. To volunteer to help, please contact our Lifespan Director of Religious Education (DLRE), Kathy Underwood. 

Is there a cost for the Faith Formation Program?
There is no fee for participation in our Faith Formation Program for Children and Youth. The program is supported by the congregation through the operating budget of the church, and parents are encouraged to pledge to the annual stewardship campaign as they are able. Parents are expected to support the Faith Formation Program in which their children and youth participate by volunteering in the program on a regular basis. 

Do I have to stay in the room with my child during programs?
Parents are welcome to stay but are not required to do so. Occasionally, a young child will have difficulty separating from his or her parent. In that case, the parent(s) and the teachers can decide together whether it’s best for the parent to stay. If your child develops a need for your help, someone will come to get you. For virtual programs, younger children will most likely need help navigating the electronic device in order to participate. 

How can I find out more about what’s going on in my child’s class?
There are three ways to keep in touch with what we’re doing: the UCE newsletter, weekly emails from the DLRE, and by talking to adult volunteer leaders of the programs. For in-person programs, leaders will sometimes send home flyers or e-mail notices. Bulletin boards inside the classrooms and in the hallway often display photos, news, and class artwork. 

How can we meet other families?
With the current concerns of COVID-19, families are gathering in small groups on the lawn during warmer weather. Our hope is to be able to continue this inside when it is colder outside. In the past, we have had potlucks, Sunday lunches, and special events like the Night of the Arts. Families are also encouraged to participate in UCE Social Action initiatives. For announcements of upcoming activities, watch the newsletter, and electronic announcements. 

How can we find out more about Faith Formation at the Unitarian Church of Evanston?
The  Director of Lifespan Religious Education  will be happy to talk with you and your family to answer your questions and how you can connect with others and get involved.