We hear the word “diversity” all the time. Certainly here at CUUC it is a paramount founding principle. We unexpectedly had Mother Nature display her personal handiwork of diversity in our weather last Sunday. Depending on your location, it ran the gamut from rain, freezing rain, snow, sleet, to simply, poof… nothing! Luckily, it was much ado about nothing in White Plains and hearty souls prevailed. On our Martin Luther King Sunday there were approximately 18 children and youth who participated under the great direction and teaching of Laura Goodspeed and Diane Keller. Many, many thanks to them for their determination to lead the MLK program in spite of inclement elements. They both consistently demonstrate their dedication and commitment to our RE program. Perry contributed a wonderful MLK skit in which everyone got to play a role, and the students also put their artistic talents to the test making posters concerning racial equality, as well as for our upcoming Chili Community Meal. From all accounts, not only did they have fun, but they were either introduced or reminded of the ever living philosophy and mission of MLK. So, I segue back to the meaning of diversity. It applies to both CUUC and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It means understanding that each individual is unique and one of a kind. We in turn recognize those differences, whether it be race, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, socio-economic status, and so much more. Our goal last Sunday was to translate this to our children as not only part of their religious education but as a fundamental foundation for their growth as human beings. Our yearly celebration of this great individual provides us the mantle of responsibility as teacher, parent, mentor, and UU to instill the very same principles that perfectly parallel Unitarian Universalism. And what are those simplistic, yet powerful tenets, our guidepost to unshakeable beliefs? Violence serves no purpose other than destruction. To be non-violent is in fact courageous. We are partnered to treat other people with understanding, dignity, and respect. How and why, you ask? If we expect such treatment for ourselves, then it behooves us to reciprocate equally. Our children should model themselves after us and live a life reflective of education, commitment, and reconciliation. These fundamental truths defined Dr. King and his life’s work. We in turn as UUs follow the very same path, sometimes faltering, as it is a rocky road, yet fully committed through our beliefs and his inspiration to form a community of diversity and acceptance.
Michele Rinaldi
Religious Education Coordinator
Looking ahead...
RE This Sunday, Jan 27
Grades K-7th start in the sanctuary for Music For All Ages and Wonder Box Story. Grades 8th-12th start in classrooms.
Religious Education Special Friends Sign Up
Join us for this pen pal program that anonymously matches children and adults in the congregation so they get to know each other better. After exchanging six letters over nine weeks, the pen pals get to meet at the Canvass Community Meal on Sun Mar 31. Please email
RE@cucwp.org to sign up.
Chili Community Meal, Sun Jan 27
The heat of chili and the warmth of community. Hosted by the 4th-5th and 6th-7th grade RE classes to support their social justice projects. Please email
RE@cucwp.org if you would like to bring a pot of chili to support the class. Cost: $5 per Adult, $3 per child, $15 max per family.
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