Curriculum Philosophy & Overview
FPCU is affiliated with both the United Church of Christ and the Unitarian Universalist Association. We believe RE classes should present religious content and knowledge with sensitivity to the diversity of belief that is present in our congregation. We encourage families to discuss the lessons with their children and help them to see the lesson through the family’s own belief structure. The Religious Education Committee is committed to providing meaningful lessons that educate our total church community (children, teens & adults). Our freethinking RE program embraces the three threads that weave our program together:
- The Judeo-Christian Heritage: Taught through Bible stories and exploration of important holidays.
- Comparative World Religion: Our Youth spends some time focusing on the many religions in the world today. By examining and comparing various religions students are able to expand their understanding of others and of themselves. Students are introduced to a world religion each year through workshops and various large group activities.
- Social Consciousness: Church and community outreach projects provide children with the opportunity of putting their faith into action. These range from local needs (e.g. leaf raking & food pantry donations) to supporting global organizations (e.g. Habitat for Humanity, The Wish Foundation & Heifer) in an effort to relieve suffering around the world.