Religious Education News: Sun Dec 9

“Tis the season” for joy and celebration! To all a Happy Hanukkah, which began Sunday evening. What a wonderful image of the warmth of the celebration of lights that is exhibited by our decorative lights and our inner glow. Sunday’s service soared with the joined singing of children, families, and choir. The RE children had the opportunity to be mesmerized by the Wonder Box Story, told with great humor by Rev. Garmon. Curiosity was the theme and how that can help us or get us in trouble. In the case of the curiosity of cats, these creatures certainly have a penchant for searching out new territories, investigating unknown objects and people, and looking for fun. Seems to me there is a striking resemblance to our students, who are always learning, exploring, and having a good time in RE. Curiosity at CUUC has certainly not killed any cats. Instead it has promoted growth and kindness in our RE “cool cats”! RE classes resumed in full force and it appears that everyone was very involved and engaged being back. The sanctuary now has its Mitten Tree! Also, with the help of Christine Haran and Janice Silverberg, all of the decorations made by the classes are now on display. When I finished up the decorating on Tuesday morning, I stood alone in the quiet of the sanctuary admiring the beauty created by the children and young adults. In one singular moment, I realized I was seeing so much more than paper decorations of red and green and blue and white. What I witnessed was the tangible expression of who we are at CUUC. There were the paper chains in colors that showed diversity. I saw links and strength. All the decorations had continuity and oneness. How profound to recognize the principles we share among ourselves and others through a simple paper decoration at this time of year, but more importantly all year ‘round. The inner peace and love of humanity is not only the core of Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, but a reflection of who we all are.

Michele Rinaldi,
Religious Education Coordinator

A look at what's coming up...

RE This Sun Dec 9
Grades K-5 start in the Fellowship Hall for Children's Worship and music with children's music director Lyra Harada. Grades 6-12 start in classrooms. Parent Orientation for Grade 8-9 Our Whole Lives (OWL) starts at 11:40am in room 11.

Faith Development Friday, Fri Dec 7, Fireside Area & Classrooms
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.

Holiday Giving Opportunities

Gently Used Children's Books and Toys Drive for the Ecumenical Food Pantry, through this Sun Dec 9
Bring in gently used kids' books and toys for our collection to benefit clients of the Ecumenical Food Pantry. We are also collecting stuffed animals (must be new or like new). Contact: Mary Cavallero (marycava4@gmail.com) for information or to volunteer to distribute.

Gift Cards for Coachman Family Center, Sign Up Sun Dec 9; Bring In Wrapped and Tagged Gift Cards Sun Dec 16
Help a family at the Coachman shelter by signing up to purchase a $25 gift card for their school-age children. This Sunday we will have lists available with the age and gender of the children, and the type of card they prefer. Please box and wrap the gift cards, tag with the child's name and room number, and bring to CUUC by Sun Dec 16. Contact: Ray Messing (raymessing@gmail.com).

Personal Items for Shelter Residents, through Sun Dec 30
New socks, men's underwear (L & XL), women’s underwear, and toiletries will be collected throughout December for residents of local shelters. Posters from our Religious Education students help spread the word! Contact: Ray Messing (raymessing@gmail.com).

The Mitten Tree is Here!
Help us decorate the tree with your donations of mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves for all ages and sizes. Share the gift of warmth! We are collecting throughout December. Items will be given to the men, women, and children of local shelters: The Coachman Family Center, Open Arms, and Samaritan House. Contact: Ray Messing (raymessing@gmail.com).