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FUSP Religious Education Program
The First Unitarian Society of Plainfield adheres to the philosophy that religious education is a lifelong learning process. As stated in our Unitarian Universalist Purposes and Principles, "we strive to have our churches be places where people are accepted and where we keep on learning together." With this in mind, we are committed to the goals of growth and learning.
For our children: We provide a safe, nurturing place. This enables our children to develop positive self-esteem, make friends, resolve conflict, and value one another.
For our youth: We develop their identity as Unitarian Universalists through our history and traditions. They learn to acknowledge and appreciate other religious and cultural rituals, and they participate in service-related projects and environmental activities.
For our adults: We have established a variety of classes and programs. These offerings may cover the areas of self-care, spiritual exploration, community building, and community outreach.
For all of us: Being part of this Religious Education continuum allows us to explore and define what is true for ourselves. We are then better able to actively become involved in making this a fair and free world.
Religious Education for Children
Our mission in the children's Religious Education program is to provide a safe, emotionally supportive environment where children can begin the lifelong process of spiritual discovery. In keeping with Unitarian-Universalist principles we encourage respect for various religious traditions, service to the community, care for the environment, and equitable treatment of all people. Students will develop an understanding of these principles through curricula and activities that encourage reflection, creativity, and joy.
RE begins each Sunday at 10:00. On our Web site you can learn more about our Sunday Morning program and read our RE curriculum for children.
Religious Education for Adults
Adult Enrichment/Religious Education are important and vital activities at FUSP. We practice our purposes and principles in the search for truth and meaning which lifelong learning can provide. We invite you to discover our expanded Adult RE offerings. Childcare will be provided for all Adult RE classes, but it must be arranged beforehand. If you will require childcare, please contact Judy England-McCarthy at least a week in advance, or indicate it when you sign up for the course to insure that it will be available. If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions, contact Judy via phone (her number is in the church directory).
Discussion Groups
Monthly discussion groups offer a more informal setting in which to discuss our common interests. There truly is something for everyone. Choose from Science & Religion, Film Discussion, support groups, and more!
Our Director of Religious Education
For nearly eight years, Sue Fertig has served this congregation as our DRE. Her office hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 10AM - 4 PM, and evenings by appointment.
The Religious Education Committee
The members of the Religious Education Committee are elected by the congregation. Together with the Director of Religious Education, they work to provide the most appropriate and relevant religious education program for our children and youth, with responsibility for curriculum selection, teacher training and support, Sunday morning programs, special events, and policy making. Committee members for 2003-2004 are Angela Goldman and Jeff Naughton (co-chairs), Jean Heacock, Heather Brown, Lois Laning, Ronnie Taylor-Hill, Josh Lambert, and Guenevere Zucker (youth representative). You can contact the committee chairs by e-mail to gigiworks@home.com