Religious Exploration for Children
Children attending Murray Church with their families have the opportunity to remain with their families throughout the service or attend Sunday morning programming. During Religious Exploration our children are supported in being together using our “thinking minds, loving hearts, and helping hands” mantra which teaches respect for ourselves and others.
Murray Unitarian Universalist Church celebrates the inherent worthiness of each person and values respect for others, honesty, equity, justice, diversity, kindness, and compassion, as well as care for our planet Earth. These values are inspired by historic principles, Murray Church’s own covenant, and newly revised Unitarian Universalist by-laws from 2024 that demonstrate our commitment to grow in a changing world. If these values speak to your heart, we welcome you to join us for the program that is right for your child.
Unitarian Universalist Principles for Kids
We believe:
- Equity – We believe in the inherent worthiness of each individual, and build inclusive communities where we help each other flourish.
- Interdependence – We honor the web of life and commit to caring for the Earth and being good, responsible stewards for future generations.
- Justice – We uphold beloved communities and work to dismantle racism and oppression in all forms.
- Generosity – We cultivate generosity and freely share resources.
- Transformation – We learn and grow to transform the world.
- Pluralism – We celebrate diversity and learn from the wisdom of many.
What does Sunday morning programming look like for children?
Little SoUUls Nursery
Babies and toddlers up through kindergarten are lovingly cared for by a paid childcare attendant and a church volunteer beginning at 9:45 am through the end of service. Our staff and volunteers working with children are background checked on a regular basis. Parents are welcome to remain with their children until they are comfortably settled. If your child needs you, someone will come and get you from the service. The nursery includes a variety of toys, books, and age appropriate art materials to delight our youngest members.
School Aged Program
Children in grades 1-8 meet with adult volunteers to explore the core values of Unitarian Universalism and develop their own faith formation. Unlike a school model, our program uses fun and creative programming to engage children using stories, art projects, movies, discussions, games, pageants, music, and project based learning. Each Sunday, children begin with a chalice lighting and group affirmation. They are then offered an opportunity to share a joy or concern with the group before they begin on the day’s topic of discussion and activity. Last year’s project based learning was a study of world religions and the creation of a Welcoming Church for all religions using the game and technology known as Minecraft.
To see the children’s ChUUrchCraft project click here.
Other Offerings for Families with Children
Family Fellowship
Generally offered on the first Friday of each month during the church year, Family Fellowship is an opportunity to gather in community. Events vary but have included movies, game nights, art projects, movement games like indoor mini-golf, scavenger hunts, and crafts for children while adults mingle. For more information check the Murray event page, follow the Murray Facebook page, or contact the Director of Religious Exploration.
Wonder and Wisdom Story Time
Wonder and Wisdom Story Time for young children and their caregivers is a wonderful way to nurture your child’s love of learning and introduce them to the values of our Unitarian Universalist community. Each meet-up includes welcome songs, stories, and free play. Stories selected celebrate our Unitarian Universalist values including the inherent worthiness of each person and values such as respect for others, honesty, equity, justice, diversity, kindness, and compassion, and care for our planet Earth. If these values speak to your heart, we welcome you to join us. It’s a great way to introduce your child to the joy of stories and the warmth of our community. For information about the next story-time meet-up, contact the Director of Religious Exploration.
Just Breathe: Mindful Meditation for Children and Caregivers
Introducing mindful breathing techniques for children is offered occasionally as a six week class. Designed especially for young children, this class uses play to teach mindful breathing techniques that children and parents can utilize together to create calm. Each week, we’ll introduce a new breathing technique using stories, songs, and play. For more information or to be added to the next class offering, please contact the Director of Religious Exploration.