We are returning to in-person religious education programs in the 2022 – 23 year! Please review church COVID protocols for more information.

 Popcorn Theology & Building Bridges

In Popcorn Theology, youth get to combine two things they love to do: watch movies and talk about them with each other! Popcorn Theology for Youth is built around popular movies on issues of theological and ethical relevance to Unitarian Universalist youth. Over the course of the program, youth will explore how the choices we make affect our lives and the lives of others, how the search for truth and meaning is a matter of perspective, how and why we are called to do what is right and how our faith can help us answer our questions, seek answers, and deal with the trials of life. (A list of the movies can be found here, subject to change with advance notice: https://www.shancarpublications.com/popcorn-theology)

In Building Bridges, we explore the world’s religions, particularly those in our neighborhoods and communities, to deepen youth’s understanding of the dynamic, fascinating, and varied world in which they live. It seeks to broaden their knowledge of humanity and embolden their spiritual search. This program places Unitarian Universalism in the context of world religions and allows youth to hear from and ask questions of people with different personal faith practices, both from within our denomination and from other houses of worship. Building Bridges engages the colorfulness and richness of faith practices and the things they have in common, and that differ.

*Special Youth Programs

The following programs alternate each year and are offered to youth outside of Sunday mornings.

*Our Whole Lives Sexuality Education (7-9 grade) 

Honest, accurate information about sexuality changes lives. It dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision-making, and has the potential to save lives. For these reasons and more, we are proud to offer Our Whole Lives (OWL), a comprehensive, lifespan sexuality education curricula for use in both secular settings and faith communities.

Interactive workshops and activities engage participants, while step-by-step instructions for program planners and facilitators help ensure success.

OWL, as it is often called, meets 6 evenings and 2 Saturdays of the year, culminating in a graduation ceremony for youth and their families. Please check back to find out when it will be offered this year, or email the director at eshadowsong@first-unitarian-pgh.org. 

*Coming of Age (8 – 9 grade)

As they prepare to leave childhood, Unitarian Universalist teenagers usually join their congregations with a special “Coming of Age” ceremony. This ceremony is often preceded by a year-long curriculum helping them to learn more about Unitarian Universalism and articulate their own beliefs. Participants will explore theology, spirituality, and history through discussion, drama, music, writing, and art. Field tested by congregations with groups ranging from four to twenty-three participants, this guide will help both congregations and youth to define their beliefs and put their faith into action. The Coming of Age ceremony usually features the youth reading their statements of personal belief (credo statements) to the congregation.

Coming of Age will be offered next year.

*All minors are required to be registered to participate in religious education classes and events; please visit our registration form here.

Religious Education Updates