The reward of the young scientist is the emotional thrill of being the first person in the history of the world to see something or to understand something. Nothing can compare with that experience... The reward of the old scientist is the sense of having seen a vague sketch grow into a masterly landscape. — Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, astronomer, accepting the Henry Norris Russell Prize from the American Astronomical Society

Participants encounter the fifth Source, which "... counsels us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science... ," through Unitarian Universalist Cecilia Payne, the first person to be given the title "astronomer." Emphasize Cecilia's love of learning and engage the children in hands-on scientific investigation to illustrate that Unitarian Universalists value discovery throughout life and use reason as a source of strength in our faith.

The Faith in Action activity suggests fundraising for Books For Africa, an organization that collects money and books for communities in Africa in desperate need of books for schools and libraries.

Goals

This session will:

• Introduce the fifth Source of Unitarian Universalism, "Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit"
• Introduce Cecilia Payne, astronomer and Unitarian Universalist
• Strengthen a love of learning and discovery
• Foster an interest in science in general, and astronomy in particular.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Identify "reason and science" as the fifth Source of Unitarian Universalism
• Discover Cecilia Payne, a Unitarian Universalist historic figure in astronomy
• Experience how we can learn about something through science and still recognize its beauty
• Learn that Unitarian Universalists value discovery throughout life and use reason as a source of strength in our faith.