As I write this column, October is coming to a close. I am looking forward to gaining new knowledge and fellowship as I attend my first Liberal Religious Educators Association (LREDA) fall conference in Morristown, NJ. Also, early November will find me engaging in spiritual renewal and professional development with my colleagues from the LREDA Seaway Chapter. I am also thinking about the ending of fall, the coming of winter, and the celebration of Thanksgiving.
Although these opportunities and ponderings might seem hectic and stress creating, this time of year reminds me to slow down, count my blessings, and prepare for winter. In doing so, I am growing spiritually. The acts of putting my gardens to bed, preparing and sharing an abundant meal for family and friends, dreaming of winter whiteness and fresh ski tracks, reading an inspiring book or article and relishing in the warmth of a fire are, for me, ways I connect to a higher realm. It makes me curious as to how others connect to this sense. Our religious education program provides many opportunities to grow spiritually, for our children during Sunday classes and for adults during Chalice Circles or UU101 programs. The UUA provides many opportunities for us to expand our ideas and connect to something bigger than ourselves. I encourage you to check these blogs and programs like Blue Boat, Standing on the Side of Love or Commit to Respond.
I would be interested to hear how you choose to grow spiritually and how the RE program can better meet your spiritual needs. Please reply below or email me or find me after church to talk about this.
Carol Zimmerman, Director of Religious Education