Faith Curriculum Library: Tapestry of Faith: Heeding the Call: A Program on Justicemaking for Junior High School Youth

Faith In Action: Understanding Our Community

Materials for Activity

  • Local newspapers
  • Congregational bulletin

Preparation for Activity

  • Gather newspapers, bulletins, and other sources of social justice educational events. Colleges and civic organizations often schedule speakers, as do civic organizations. Speak to members of the justice committee at your congregation if you need more sources.
  • Discuss plans with the religious educator or religious education committee. Find out the rules pertaining to offsite events and make arrangements to follow the rules. Arrange for chaperones.

Description of Activity

Youth explore local opportunities to increase their understanding of social justice issues.

Tell youth that there are many opportunities in their community to be better educated on justice issues. Show the group the materials you have gathered. Go through them, highlighting any talks, lectures, screenings, or workshops that interest participants. Make sure that the timing of the event matches the group's availability and that the topic is suitable for their age. Once you have reached consensus on an event, arrange for transportation and chaperones, including permission slips and other policies of the congregation. Make reservations if required.

After the event, discuss with the group their new understandings.