Dir. of Religious Exploration Linnea Nelson

When I settle into my office each morning,
I take a moment to gaze through the big picture window onto the Program Building.
I dream a little about the wondrous discussions, meditations, songs and stories that transform lives in that space. I also think about the awesome responsibility of providing a program that engages, enlightens, and develops faith and understanding for our children and youth. I fully believe that what happens in that space makes a significant difference in lives. Specifically, the time we spend in an RE class, either as an adult or a child, allows new connections, ideas and inspiration to guide our everyday actions. What more can we ask of an opportunity to live our mission of transforming ourselves and the world than to be a teacher in our RE program?

A UUCF member visited my office recently to share her "aha" moment about her role as an RE teacher. She said that while attending the leadership class led by our ministers, she was taken by surprise when Mary Katherine listed RE teachers as leaders within our congregation. This concept was new to this RE teacher and she now sees herself in a different light at UUCF - a teacher and a leader.

John Quincy Adams has been quoted to say, "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." I believe this sums up the role of a religious educator. You don't need to be an expert (we have wonderful curriculum to guide you), but rather a willingness to take a leadership role on our faith journey.

Teacher Training day is a time to learn how to create a supportive space for faith development and to build a teaching team covenant. Please join us on Saturday morning to begin your journey as a leader at UUCF. We still have a few teaching opportunities open. Please let me know that you are interested in teaching this year!