Religious Education News: Dec 30

Last Sunday was Fun Day for the children and youth, with children’s music director Lyra Harada taking the lead for holiday and seasonal festivities. With Christmas only two days away, everyone was excited and jubilant during this pre-“big day” event. Two of the younger children assisted me in lighting the chalice and then we sat around in a close circle talking about what the kids liked the most about Christmas and what they were looking forward to. There were quite a variety of eagerly anticipated activities, starting with watching Lord of the Rings all day, to eating lots of cookies, to opening up at least “fifty” gifts. If you are going to wish, it might as well be big! Lyra spoke to the children about the season of winter and how music can make you imagine different feelings. She asked them to close their eyes, listen, and demonstrate different “winter” feelings such as shivering, brrrr, snowflakes falling on their face, jumping up and down to keep warm, or ice skating. Well, we had quite a few terrific impressionists from those shivering away and chattering their teeth, to graceful dancing, to jumping jack workouts. With all this acting, it was time to hear the Nutcracker, which was beautifully choreographed by a mom and her twin daughters displaying lovely ballet moves (no training required). To round out the morning, everyone got to play musical chairs and board games. It seems to me that fun, spontaneity, and the simplicity of laughter is a common thread among our children. However childhood innocence is not reserved for just Christmas nor just children. Adults can be children as well and we can collectively live this treasury of emotions now and throughout the New Year.

Michele Rinaldi
Religious Education Coordinator

This Sunday in RE, Dec. 30
There is no RE this Sunday. Childcare will be available.

Last Call for the Mitten Tree
Bring warmth to the men, women, and children in local shelters. Donate mittens, gloves, scarves, and hats for all ages.

Faith Development Friday, Fri Jan 11
Our evening of learning, spiritual growth, and community. 6:15pm Pizza & Salad Community Dinner; 7:00pm Programs; 8:30pm Coffee. Programs include Adult RE and Family Journey Group. Adults may also just come for a slice and unstructured social time together. All are welcome to stay after the programs to share coffee and a chat. RSVP to CUUCevents@gmail.com by 12:00 noon on Friday.