Religious Exploration

"We are Unitarian Universalists: people of the open mind, the loving heart, the helping hands"​

Religious Exploration/Education (RE) is a lifelong journey, for everyone.  It is a journey we take together, learning from each other and from life experiences, sharing and supporting each other through all stages of life.  As we journey, we believe that to question and explore is the Answer – for all ages.

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Inclusion of children in multigenerational services throughout the year, and in age-appropriate social action activities, helps develop a church identity, a feeling of community, and an understanding of Unitarian Universalism.

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For Adults

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 In addition to topics explored in our regular worship services and book discussion meetings, we also offer several guided programs as interest arises.  

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"The New UU" helps persons new to Unitarian Universalism to explore how this liberal religious community compares to other faiths; how it came to be; and ways people can continue to grow their own spirituality within Unitarian Universalism.

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"Building Your Own Theology" is based on the concept that everyone is their own theologian. The program invites participants to develop their own personal credos.

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For Children

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Members stand ready to provide infant care and/or age-appropriate RE activities for children who visit or attend regularly.  RE classes from preschool up combine story, song, movement and craft activities, discussion and play in order to engage children with many learning styles and activity levels.

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Preschool curricula present picture books and stories connected with our Seven Principles, with themes of kindness, justice, diversity, sharing, respect, peace, and appreciating and caring for our world and all in it.

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Elementary school-age children are introduced to the diversity of religions around the world through curricula such as Holidays and Holy Days, or What is Religion? - for Myself and for Others? Games such as "UU Binguu" teach kids (and adults too!) about the history of UUism, as well as the many well-known seekers and reformers associated with our faith  (examples:  Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Clara Barton, Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Beatrix Potter, Charles Darwin, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Paul Newman, Pete Seeger, Buckminster Fuller, James Reeb....etc.)  -- thus presenting young people with role models and motivation to help make the world a better place for all.

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Especially for Teens

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The Unitarian Universalist Association developed a comprehensive lifespan sexuality program, the "Our Whole Lives" (OWL) program to present honest, accurate information to growing young people.  It dismantles stereotypes, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision making. Classes have been held in conjunction with the First Congregational UCC in Menomonie. "Coming of Age" programs are also common in UU congregations, to engage teens in self-exploration and spiritual journeying.  

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