Elementary Class
Through the month of March, the elementary class will be continuing learning the 7 UU Values!
On March 8th the class will learn about the 2nd principal of justice. We will explore equality and compassion in human relations, this principle is often taught by encouraging kids to be themselves, fostering kindness, and exploring themes of fairness and inclusivity through stories and activities.
March 15th the elementary class will be learning on the 3rd UU Value of interdependence! In this lesson the class we’ll learn how all people, living things, and the Earth are connected and how our choices affect one another. Through a fun hands-on activity, interactive group games, and a meaningful story, children will discover what it means to care for our shared world and support one another in community.
March 22nd the elementary class will learn on the 5th UU Value of Justice. This teaches us that everyone deserves fairness, kindness, and respect. In class, children will learn what it means to stand up for others, include those who feel left out, and help create a world where all people are treated with dignity. Through a story, hands-on activities, and interactive games, we’ll practice using our voices and our hearts to make a difference. Together, we’ll discover that even small acts of courage and compassion can help build a more loving and just world for everyone.
March 29th the elementary class will be learning on the 4th UU Value Pluralism. Where it teaches us that we celebrate diversity in all its forms — different beliefs, cultures, identities, and ways of being in the world. In class, children will explore how our differences make our community stronger and more beautiful. Through a story, engaging games, and a creative activity, we’ll practice listening with open hearts and speaking with kindness and respect.
Middle School Class
The RE middle school classes will be held twice a month as they have met this past Sunday March 1 and will meet again on March 8th as they learn on the topic of activation! Students will explore what it means to live their values out loud — standing up for fairness, kindness, and justice in ways that are thoughtful and impactful. We’ll look at different forms of activism, from peaceful protest and community service to art, writing, and everyday acts of courage. Through discussion, interactive activities, and real-world examples, youth will reflect on the causes they care about and how their voices matter.
Together, we’ll discover that activism isn’t just about big movements — it’s about small, brave choices that help create a more loving and equitable world.
On March 29th the elementary and middle school classes will be combining together to have a movie day! As the classes will have time to fellowship together with creating crafts, playing games, watching Encanto and of course eating yummy snacks!
Encanto beautifully reflects Unitarian Universalist values by showing how love holds a community together, even when it feels fragile. The Madrigal family reminds us that every person has inherent worth — not because of what they can do, but because of who they are. The film celebrates pluralism by honoring each family member’s unique gifts and differences. It teaches interdependence as the family learns that when one person hurts, everyone feels it — and when they support one another, they grow stronger together. Encanto reminds us that our greatest gift isn’t magic — it’s belonging.
Upcoming RE events:
The OCUUC RE will be hosting a fantastic Easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday April 5th that will follow after the service. We invite the congregation to join us as there will be carnival games, simple craft station, face painting, and of course hunting for eggs!
If you would like to volunteer we will be looking for help to look over a carnival game as the children play them. Your job will be to show/assist the children on how to play the game as well as hand out prizes to them once they have participated!
Danielle Lewis is Orange Coast Unitarian Universalist Church's Director of Religious Education.