Backyard to the Universe
RELATIONAL RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
DESCRIPTION OF SESSION FORMAT: Sample
Each person adds a sticker to the "I AM HERE!" chart either as they enter the Religious Education space or after sharing. This is a chart with the names of the children and leaders and a number of weeks. The stickers are bright, cheerful, and have some variety (not stars!). This is a visual way of affirming attendance and of each person stating the importance of his or her presence.
Opening/Chalice Lighting (Have words in large print hung in a visible place.)
With everyone standing, have a child light the flame (light) is a chalice is used, or just have the group say in unison:
We celebrate Unitarian [make U with thumb and forefinger of left hand] Universalism [make U with thumb and forefinger of the right hand].
This is the church of the open mind. [point to head]
This is the church of the helping hands. [hands out in front, palms up]
This is the church of the loving heart. [hands together across chest]
Check-in. Allow each person time to say how things are for them at that moment, or a highlight from the last week. A person may also pass. Some groups use a talking stick or a stone to focus attention. The person who has the object is the one who is talking.
If there are people missing from the circle who are ill, it might be a time to send a card from the group. Have the card there so that the group can see what is being sent. Also, people may wish to sign a card.
Story: The story may be connected with Family Time in the service. The story can also be brought to the religious education session or may be used when children meet when adults have a Small Group meeting.
Exploring. This is a combination of questions for dialog and there may be suggested activities. These are only a beginning, and the facilitator/religious educator/child care provider is welcome to add other ideas, which will come out of "living with" as story as part of preparation.
Closing. The marks the official end of the focus on the story. A standard closing can be used, for example, make a circle, holding hands and say in unison, (have words in large print hung in a visible place)
As we leave this place and time together,
May peace be before you, may peace be behind you.
May peace be above you and in side you.
Go now in peace.
Squeeze: One person squeezes the hand of the next person, who squeezes the hand of the next person, etc., around the circle to the person who started it.
Amen and Blessed Be.