Backyard to the Universe
Small Group Ministries
They need to sing a song, to hear their own voice and other voices joined together, and to feel the feelings that are stirred by music.
They need to hear a story and have a chance to share their own, remembering that we are each different and also very alike.
They need to create something, realizing that by expressing themselves, whether using words or materials, helps to bind the different parts of ourselves and life together. That’s what religion is.
They need to be with an adult who is interested in the world and who feels the privilege and responsibility of their trust¾ one who is glad to be with them, and regards them positively.
Into this safe and encouraging context, we may weave the content of our religious traditions. The history and common threads of our identity are important to be sure, but without this essential loving embrace the education will not be religious.
Topic/Activity:
Share something that you have learned in your life. How did you learn it? (reading, lecture, discussion, movement, sensory experiences, etc.)
It has been said that we remember "20% of what we hear, 30% of what we see, 50% of what we hear and see, 70% of what we say, and 90% of what we do". What is needed for you to remember?
What are your preferred activities and ways of teaching? Do the participants in your group learn in different ways form you? What would you need in order to provide a varied learning environment? How can you plan to meet your needs?
Closing words
We sing, we dance, we move to tempo and to sound.
We find the rhythms and connections with nature’s life forces.
We communicate in words, body language and symbols.
We walk, we run, we are physically involved with our world.
We see, we hear, we think in images and dreams and visions.
We contemplate, solve mysteries, and feel the mystery in the order.
We try to know ourselves that we might better interact with others.
We are similar in many ways, yet mysteriously different.
We have multiple ways of being in the world, similar traits in varying amounts.
This we celebrate!
Likes and Wishes: How did the session go for you?
Zidowecki, 7/2004