Exploring Our Roots

			Exploring Our Roots

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Author: Margaret K. Gooding

Publisher: Canadian Unitarian Council

Pub. Date: l988

Available From: Free Spirit Literature, PO Box 415 RPO Corydon, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3M 3V3, Canada. Phone (800) 759-4889

Theme and Description Through a focus on Canadian Unitarian Universalist heritage, this curriculum engages participants in an exploration of their religious and cultural roots to provide a deeper understanding of Unitarian Universalism today. Includes the religious heritage of the local congregation, ideas of God, Unitarian Universalist history in Canada, and ancient Hebrew, Christian, and Native North American festivals still celebrated today.

Goals for Participants

To see themselves as part of a rich religious heritage
To deepen their understanding of what Unitarian Universalists believe
To learn the origins of our rituals and celebrations
To explore how Unitarian Universalist thoughts and beliefs have developed
To learn of the history of Unitarianism and Universalism in Canada ? To come to know the history of their own congregation.

Age Range Ages 9 to 11

Size of Group 8 to 10 (larger groups possible with two or more leaders)

Space Requirements A room large enough to accommodate participant discussions and art and drama activities, with bulletin boards or wall space for displays. Occasional use of a kitchen is desirable.

Number of Sessions 28 (plus 4 optional sessions)

Length of Sessions 1 1/2 hours

Leader Training Experience with teaching the upper-elementary age levels is necessary. Familiarity with the whole curriculum is important. Leader training is desirable, but not necessary. Resource ideas and a bibliography are provided.

Leader Preparation 1 to 2 hours per session. Some tasks, such as writing letters, finding resource books, ordering pamphlets, and inviting guests, add to the preparation time.

Strengths

Places Unitarian Universalist values and beliefs in a historical context
Presents the evolution of Unitarian Universalist beliefs in an imaginative way
Encourages an appreciation of the complex and diverse roots of contemporary religious festivals and celebrations
Develops analysis, imagination, language, social skills, and team-building.

Limitations

Contains some lesson plans that lack detailed instructions
Includes sections that cannot be covered in the given number of sessions, so requires modification of the lesson plan or the schedule.

Adaptability

Guidelines for adapting the program for use in the United States are included in the Appendix
Adaptable to any size group and to a wider age span, such as 8 to 12 ? Many activities are appropriate for intergenerational gatherings.

Unitarian Universalist Values Explicitly presents values and concepts suited to the age group. Concepts more appropriate for older youth or adults are mainly implicit.