I really love hearing from a mosaic of speakers during a worship service. There’s something holy about putting together unique individuals to listen for individual perspectives and realize the gestalt– an organized whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. So, I thought it a fruitful exercise to name on paper a few of the most common strings that wove together the messages from this past Sunday’s speakers on “Growing Up UU”, as they speak to that which greater than us, that divine spirit to which we aspire:

1. I heard that congregations who center acceptance and affirmation of the individual provided young folx with an unconditional love that connected them to the community and to the faith, and also to themselves. This acceptance has been cultivated through actions that encourage children to express their true selves, allowing them freedom and creativity. It has been nurtured by adults who spend time and pay attention to children and youth. It has been modeled by adults who freely express themselves and are affirmed in the congregation as unique, wonderful individuals who are deeply loved and respected. Letting kids lead and be a part of the decision making process further supports their ability to accept themselves and feel accepted by the community.
2. I heard that congregations who provided children and youth with a strong moral compass gave them a tool to carry with them throughout their lives. This moral compass was used by the adults themselves.
3. I heard that involvement in social justice initiatives was deeply meaningful, giving our children and youth the tools needed to know how to make change as adults. Educating our children about social justice movements of the past helped to root them in our faith, empower them, and spark creativity for how they could engage as adults. Providing these rewarding experiences to children and youth helps to form them into adults who seek out justice-making opportunities with others.
4. All of the above nurture relationships– the power in which we have ultimate faith because of our awareness of the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. Healthy, meaningful relationships sustain us, they connect us. They sustain life and love.

My question now is, how do we continue to do these things during pandemic times? How do we express our love and acceptance, honor their creativity, provide them with a moral compass and build our relationships with them? It will take all of us to create a new adventure for our children and youth.