MDUUC Is For Families!
We know that families come in all shapes and sizes, big families, small families, chosen families, blended families, families with children with unique needs and gifts. Your MDUUC Lifespan Ministry staff is here to partner with every family and support you in helping your children to grow in body, mind and spirit.
What to Expect
What to Expect
Worship Info
All are welcome in our church community. We gather in worship on Sunday mornings at 10:15 am.
Your families’ time with us begins in Bortin Hall at the Religious Education (RE) Greeter table! This is where we first connect, share all of the activities happening in our RE spaces each Sunday, and parents sign their children in to the space of their choice prior to entering the sanctuary for the service. Our families begin in worship together and, after the Time for All Ages, our children and youth have the option to head out to their RE spaces for the rest of their morning. Of course, young people are always welcome to stay for the full service as well – we love babies, kids and teens!
Our nursery is available for babies and toddlers prior to and during worship and through the connection hour.
Childcare Info
We recognize that caring for your child so you can attend Sunday programming and worship is an important role that we play in your family’s life. We strive to fulfill that role well. Nursery caregivers provide loving care for our littlest congregants ( infants, toddlers, and children through age 3). The Nursery Room is located in the Old Firehouse Preschool. You are welcome to bring your child(ren) in before worship starts, or at any time during the service.
We’re proud to have consistent supervision by our terrific and trained teen caregiver staff. They are committed to working in the nursery every Sunday with few exceptions, and also to providing childcare on other occasions. Please go by and introduce yourselves!
Parents are always welcome in our nursery. We ask that you please take the time to help your children feel comfortable in their environment by bringing any special items that may ease the transition. Promptly inform the caregivers of any special care, including medical needs, which your child(ren) may require.
There is a sign-in sheet in the nursery. It is important that you sign in your child (using the clipboard) and provide us allergy information and a mobile number. We may contact you during the service if we are unable to console your child.
You are also welcome to keep your child with you during the service. In addition, the Heritage Room at the back of the sanctuary and the Bortin Social Hall are places where you can both see and hear the service while your child has a bit more freedom to move around.
We also ask that you please not leave your child if they are ill.
Religious Education Classes
Religious Education Classes
Classes
Sign up for our RE Newsletter by contacting Marena@mduuc.org
Follow RE on Instagram @mduucignite
Nursery & Childcare Program
Our nursery program provides a nurturing and safe environment for children aged 0–3 years old during the Sunday services. We understand the importance of early childhood development and aim to create a space where infants and toddlers can explore, learn, and grow. Our dedicated team of caregivers ensures that each child's individual needs are met, offering age-appropriate activities, sensory play, and gentle guidance. We prioritize building trusting relationships with both the children and their families, fostering a sense of security and comfort. With a focus on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere, our nursery program is designed to support the development of young children and provide parents with peace of mind as they engage in other aspects of our religious community.
**Childcare for children of all ages is available upon request for all MDUUC events and programming.**
Preschool – Grade 1: Spirit Play
Ignite your child's imagination and curiosity through the Montessori-inspired Spirit Play program. With interactive storytelling, hands-on activities, and meaningful reflection, your child will engage in questions about life and morals while developing a strong foundation of Unitarian Universalist values.
Grades 2–8: Article II Workshop Rotation
We are piloting a new curriculum created by our Director of Religious Education, Marena McGregor. Exciting kinesthetic workshops await your children as they dive deeper into Unitarian Universalist principles and sources through the lens of the Article II commission. Through interactive activities, creative arts, meditation, spiritual practices and collaborative projects they will foster a sense of community while exploring the Article II themes that center around love.
- September - Love
- October - Interdependence
- November - Equity
- December - Rituals & Connection
- January - Transformation
- February - Pluralism
- March - Generosity
- April - Justice
- May - Love
monthly children's chapels
Celebrate the wonder and wisdom of childhood with our monthly Children's Chapels. Through music, storytelling, role play and reflection, children will further engage with Article II themes and experience the joy of communal worship that centers the developmental needs of children and youth.
MIXED-ISH PROGRAM
6th Grade- Adult
1st & 3rd Wednesday Nights (September-May)
Join us for an enriching multicultural, multi-generational and multimedia program written by our Director of Religious Education, Marena McGregor and co-facilitated by Lynn Basket. Designed for participants of all racial backgrounds in grades 6 & above, AND adults, this engaging multicultural and multi-generational experience promises to ignite meaningful conversations and foster understanding. Explore important themes such as race, class, social justice, and generational dynamics and more through a variety of unique lenses, utilizing thought-provoking scenes from the popular TV show Mixed-ish. Following the screenings, participants will have the opportunity to engage in transformational dialogue within their respective affinity groups, encouraging deeper exploration, connection, personal growth and shared experiences. Finally, these groups will come together for collective discussions centered around anti-racism, anti-oppression, and multiculturalism. This program allows for drop-in attendance and ongoing participation, welcoming youth, friends, parents, grandparents, non-parents, and all who are interested in promoting inclusivity and embracing diversity.
*Join us earlier for the community meal at 6 pm
**Childcare for younger kiddos is available upon request
Youth AND YOUNG ADULT Groups
Middle School Youth Group (MSYG)
Grades 6-8 ~~~ Sundays 12-1:30pm
Join our vibrant and inclusive youth group where young minds connect, engage, and discover their unique voices. Through meaningful discussions, mindfulness activities, spiritual practices, community service projects, and fun-filled outings, they'll deepen their spiritual growth and build lifelong friendships.
High School Youth Group (YRUU)
Grades 9-12 ~~~ Sundays 12-130pm
Our high school youth group offers a supportive space for teens to explore their identities, values, and passions. Engage in thought-provoking discussions, social justice initiatives, mindfulness exercises, spiritual practices and exciting social activities while strengthening your connection to the UU community.
Young Adult Group 18-35ish
Join a diverse and inclusive community of young adults, where you can explore spirituality, engage in meaningful dialogue, and develop lifelong friendships. Connect with others who share your values and aspirations.
family events
Sign up for our RE Newsletter by contacting Marena@mduuc.org
Follow RE on Instagram @mduucignite
Connect with other families and create lasting memories through our exciting family events. From community meals, dances, social justice activities, field trips, game nights, holiday events, and more these events offer opportunities for fellowship and fun.
2024 Save the Dates:
- Sun. Sep 3 @ 10:30 - Water Communion
- Sun. Oct 29 @ 12 - Trunk-or-Treat
- Sat. Nov 4 @ 5 - Bid4Love
- Sun. Dec 3 @ 12 - Carols & Crafts
- Sun. Dec 10 @ 10:30 - Family Holiday Pageant
- Sun. Dec 24 @ 5 - Family Xmas Eve Service
- Sat. Feb 10 @ 6 - Valentine's Gatsby Dance
- Sat. March 2 @ 5 - Fellowship Event
- Sun. March 24 @ 10:30 - Celebration Sunday
- Sun. March 31 @ 12 - Easter Egg Hunt
- Sun. April 21 @ 12 - Family Picnic
- Sun. June 2 @ 10:30 - Flower Communion
Registration and Resources
Registration
Registration is an important tool we use in creating safe and engaging environments for all participants, including our virtual environments. In addition to informing what we offer, registration provides necessary health and contact information. It is our policy that all religious education participants be registered after their third visit.
Calendar
Coming Soon!
Communication Opportunities
Want to know what's happening for children, youth, and families at MDUUC?
Sign up with marena@mduuc.org to receive the weekly Religious Education Newsletter and follow us on Instagram!
Outside Resources
Coming Soon!
Our Whole Lives
Sexuality Education
Sexuality is an essential part of our lives. At MDUUC we offer Our Whole Lives (OWL), a comprehensive sexuality education curriculum. Our Whole Lives is a program that spans the whole lifespan from birth to adulthood. It provides developmentally appropriate information at each step that celebrates all genders identities, sexual orientations, and family structures while giving accurate and scientific information to help people of all ages make values-based choices.
It covers topics and skills that both parents and students want to have available but schools are less likely to cover. Classes are taught by carefully selected leaders, trained and approved by the national OWL training program.
Honest, accurate information about sexuality changes lives. It dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision making, and save lives. Research shows that informed people make healthier decisions related to sexuality.
7th – 9th (Fall)
Discover a comprehensive and affirming sexuality education program designed specifically for youth in grades 7-9. Our Whole Lives (OWL) offers a safe and supportive space for young adolescents to explore topics such as healthy relationships, consent, body image, gender identity, and more. Through interactive activities, engaging discussions, and age-appropriate resources, participants will develop knowledge, skills, and values to make informed decisions about their bodies, relationships, and sexual health. Led by trained facilitators, this empowering program fosters inclusivity, respect, and open dialogue, ensuring that participants feel heard, valued, and supported on their journey toward healthy adulthood.
10th - 12th Grade (Winter)
Prepare for the transitions and challenges of young adulthood with our transformative Our Whole Lives (OWL) program designed for students in grades 10-12. This comprehensive sexuality education program empowers participants to navigate complex topics such as consent, communication, sexual health, healthy relationships, and more. Through interactive discussions, activities, and guest speakers, participants gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make informed decisions and engage in responsible behaviors. Led by experienced facilitators, this inclusive and supportive program provides a safe space for open dialogue, self-reflection, and personal growth, ensuring that participants feel equipped and empowered as they enter adulthood.
18–35ish (Fall)
Embrace a holistic approach to sexuality and relationships in our Our Whole Lives (OWL) Young Adult program. Tailored for individuals in the 18-35ish young adult age range, this transformative program explores topics such as consent, boundaries, healthy relationships, communication, sexual health, and personal values. Through engaging discussions, experiential activities, and guest speakers, participants develop a deeper understanding of their own identities and beliefs, fostering self-acceptance and respect for others. Led by knowledgeable facilitators, this inclusive and affirming program provides a safe and supportive environment for open dialogue, exploration, and growth. Join us to build meaningful connections, expand your knowledge, and navigate the complexities of adulthood with confidence and authenticity.