Faith Curriculum Library: Tapestry of Faith: Gather the Spirit: A Multigenerational Program about Stewardship

Introduction

There's a river of my people and its flow is swift and strong. — Pete Seeger, Unitarian Universalist folk singer and activist

This workshop introduces stewardship and water as critical at every level of being, from self to universe. It sets the stage for the Gather the Spirit program, presenting water as a great gift and highlighting that human beings are charged with its care. The workshop offers optional, water-based ways to decorate the Gather the Spirit meeting space and introduces two ongoing activities: group work on a shared River Scene mural and a water scavenger hunt to try at home.

Gather the Spirit is intended for use by multigenerational groups, and its activities are designed to include and engage participants of diverse ages and abilities. You will benefit from learning in advance who will be in the group, so you can tailor the Gather the Spirit program to participants' specific interests and needs.

Goals

This workshop will:

  • Introduce water as a spiritually and physically connecting force, drawing together all beings in the web of existence
  • Present stewardship as essential human commitment to the web of all existence
  • Explore Unitarian Universalist perspectives on water and its place in our interdependent world
  • Demonstrate the energizing force of gathered community, in discussion and action
  • Share wisdom from the Sources of transcending mystery, the results of science and Native American tradition.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • Become familiar with the rituals of Gather the Spirit
  • Experience the power of joined group by making rain and beginning a mural
  • Hear a water-based creation story from the Navajo tradition
  • Consider big questions concerning human community and water
  • Express in art and action the seventh Unitarian Universalist Principle, respect for the web of all existence
  • Explore ways to steward Earth's water resources.