Faith CoLab: Tapestry of Faith: Virtue Ethics: An Ethical Development Program for High School Youth

Introduction

Part of Virtue Ethics

Loyalty is still the same, whether it win or lose the game; true as a dial to the sun, although it be not shined upon. — Samuel Butler, novelist

This workshop focuses on loyalty. Be prepared—youth may be unfamiliar with the word and need a definition. Youth discover different types of loyalty and examine a situation in which loyalties to oneself, one's congregation, and Unitarian Universalism compete.

This workshop concludes the program. Alternate Activity 3, Celebration, offers a wrap-up. Alternate Activity 2, Worship Service, guides the youth to plan a multigenerational worship service in which they share their virtue ethics work with the congregation.

Goals

This workshop will:

  • Examine the meaning of loyalty
  • Provide examples of situations where loyalty is used or called for
  • Guide youth to identify themselves as users of loyalty.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • Explore the meaning of "loyalty"
  • Discuss a dilemma where loyalty is tested
  • Practice discerning what and who deserve their loyalty
  • Examine their use of loyalty and commit to the future use of loyalty in their lives.