Teacher Orientation

WHEN: September 10th
TIME: 10:00am- 12pm
WHERE: UUCF Social Hall

Do you have a passion for Unitarian Universalism and discovering new spiritual practices, songs, rituals, and wisdom from sometimes unexpected places? Our lifespan learning program needs you to help guide our children and youth as they make their own discoveries during our Sunday morning program! Come join us!

"But I don't know how to teach about Unitarian Universalism!"

Never fear! A facilitator's role is to be authentically present with our children and youth to help guide them to make their own discoveries. Together you will embark on a journey with our youngsters to discover what being a Unitarian Universalist means to you. During the training, we will work together to share helpful tools and tips for success.

"I would love to be a part of the spiritual journey of our children and youth... but... I can't make that training date!"
Please email directorlifespanlearning@uuflint.org and let me know! I can do some one-on-one training or I can set up a second training date for those who cannot be here on September 10th.

"I would love to be a part of the spiritual journey of our children and youth... but.. I don't have time!"
Our curriculum for this year is specifically designed with a busy schedule in mind. Preptime is minimal and we have lots of room for people who have a special skill or gift to share with our youth, but can only commit to one or two Sunday mornings throughout the year.

"I teach five days a week. I don't want to teach on Sundays too..."
Witnessing the spiritual journey of our children and youth on Sunday mornings can be a wonderful, fulfilling experience. Our children and youth bring their own wisdom to the circle, so be prepared to leave with a renewed sense of our faith!

Questions? Contact Me!

Amy Peterson Derrick
Director of Lifespan Learning
director-lifespanlearning@uuflint.org
810.232.4023 (office)
www.uuflint.org
www.uucflifespan.blogspot.com

A Moment For All Ages August 7, 2011: The Five Smooth Stones

We have many tools to help us develop and strengthen our UU faith; our powerful chalice symbol, our seven UU Principles and six Sources, the wisdom of our communities, and the ability to find bits of wisdom in everyone and everything.

James Luther Adams had an idea about some of the tools we need as religious liberals; he developed what came to be known as "The Five Smooth Stones of Liberal Religion."

Since Adams' developed these principles, there have been many different interpretations of his words; one of my favorites is from Rev. Amy Bowden Freedman from her sermon on this topic:

1- Revelation is continuous.
2- Free Choice and Respect in Human Relations.
3- Establish a Just and Loving Community
4- Make Good Things Happen
5- Positive Change is Possible

These stones can be a really powerful tool for our UU children and youth as well. Try using these words to explain the five smooth stones:

1- We are always learning
2- We are together by choice
3- We work for a fair a loving community
4- We work to make good things happen
5- We remember that positive change is possible

How do you use these principles in your life?

Thank you to the following bloggers whose interpretations of Adams' work helped with the development of this article:

Rev. Amy Bowden Freedman
Rev. Naomi King
Dr. Greg Smith

Check out this video by Rev. Naomi King to find out more about the Five Smooth Stones: