At First Unitarian Universalist Church of Stockton, we are using an original Religious Education program created by our Director of Religious Education, Michelle Mueller, that is inspired by the Workshop Rotation Model (“WoRM”), for grades K – 6. Workshop Rotation Model is used in other Sunday School programs and facilitates different styles of learning for specific selected stories throughout the year. Our Workshops are ideologically linked to the seven Unitarian Universalist principles.
1st principle Workshop: Art
“The inherent worth and dignity of every person.”
2nd principle Workshop: Storytelling
“Justice, equity and compassion in human relations.”
3rd principle Workshop: Children’s Chapel
“Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.”
4th principle Workshop: A Day With Youth Group
“A free and responsible search for truth and meaning.”
5th principle Workshop: Drama & Music
“The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large.”
6th principle Workshop: Service-Learning
“The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all.”
7th principle Workshop: RE & the Environment
“Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.”
This year (2011-2012) we are learning the stories of Icarus (Greek), Joseph (Hebrew), Kuan Yin (Chinese Buddhist), Earth Mother (Native American), and Mohammed (Muslim). In 2012-13 we will explore a series of five different sacred and cultural stories, through the lenses of the same 7 workshops and UU principles. The RE Committee and Director of Religious Education will select next year’s stories in March. Next year’s batch is likely to include The Lorax by Dr. Seuss!
