We offer Religious Exploration programming for our children and youth three Sundays a month, with two Classroom Sundays, and one mixed ages Creative Sunday. On Sundays that do not have RE programming, we hold an interactive multigenerational service in the sanctuary starting at 10:30 am.
~ Director of Religious Exploration, Madeline Natale

January Classroom Sundays
~This month the elementary aged children will explore our monthly theme “Practicing Resistance” through stories, activities, crafts, and games.
~Middle School will continue to explore their Unitarian Universalist Values through the lense of other faith traditions using the “Crossing Paths” Curriculum.
~Youth who are in High School are encouraged to join the weekly services or volunteer in RE. They are welcome to facilitate games and crafts for the elementary kids or play in the nursery with our babies and toddlers.

Elementary religious exploration is in a time of change. We are starting the new year by introducing “Choose your own Adventure” RE. All elementary kids will start RE in the arch room for Children’s Chapel. They will light their chalice, revisit covenant, embody the 7 values, and enjoy a story that aligns with the theme of the month. After this connection time they are invited to choose between 2 or 3 activities. Our goal is to deepen their connection with all of the kids in RE across many age groups and allow them to take ownership over their RE experience.

Religious Exploration Schedule for January

Class runs from 10:45-11:45 am. School aged children are invited to start in the Sanctuary.
January 4 – Classroom Sunday
January 11 – Creative Sunday
January 18 – Classroom Sunday
January 25 – Multigenerational Service

The nursery is open every Sunday (except December 28) from 10 am-12 pm for children ages 0 -4.

Please register your children below for the 2025-2026 Religious Exploration program!

Religious Exploration Events

Music for Little People
Wednesday, January 7 and 21
12 – 12:45 pm, Arch Room
Share in the joy of music in this class which is free and open to the public. Children 0-5 and their caregivers are welcome to meet us in the Arch Room each month. Sing, play, dance, explore instruments, and connect through music.

Connection Circle for Parents – Childcare Provided
Sunday, January 18
12 pm-1 pm in the Sophia Lyon Fahs Room
Our Connection Circle for individuals who are actively parenting will begin meeting again this month. Gatherings will take place monthly on the third Sunday of the month from 12 – 1 pm, with childcare available. We invite you to join us for an opportunity for fellowship and community within our larger First UU community, in a safe, confidential and nurturing environment.

A Uni-verse-al Birthday
Saturday, January 24
4:30 – 7:30 pm in the Annex
Join us for our first ever “Everybody” Birthday Party! This is a multigenerational astrology themed birthday party. We will have table top games, dinner and cake!

Teen Movie Night
Saturday, January 24
7:30 – 9:30 pm in the Arch Room
This movie night is intended for youth who are in middle and high school. Invite youth to bring friends! No registration needed, please email Madeline (dre@uuithaca.org) to inquire about the movie title. Popcorn and drink will be provided. Join us for the Uni-verse-al birthday party beforehand to enjoy dinner and cake.