Tapestry of Faith: A Place of Wholeness: A Program for Youth Exploring Their Own Unitarian Universalist Faith Journeys

Introduction

My religious superstitions gave place to rational ideas based on scientific facts, and in proportion, as I looked at everything from a new standpoint, I grew more and more happy, day by day. — Elizabeth Cady Stanton, 19th century Unitarian suffragist and author of The Woman's Bible

The use of reason is a defining part of Unitarian Universalism as a liberal, humanistic religion. The core activities of this workshop explore the meaning and role of reason in religion, connecting it with the many sources of knowing that religious people draw on. The alternate activities engage diverse learning styles through movement and delve deeper into the sources of religious truths and decision-making.

Goals

This workshop will:

  • Clarify the meaning of reason and its role in Unitarian Universalism
  • Demonstrate how reason and science are used to reach diverse conclusions
  • Engage participants in using their reason to reflect on their religious beliefs
  • Emphasize that there are many sources of knowing that interact with reason
  • Make connections between reason and social justice work
  • Offer creative and multi-sensory ways to explore reason.

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

  • Differentiate between reason and similar processes and faculties
  • Learn the importance of reason for Unitarian Universalists and their own lives
  • Understand that the use of reason can lead to diverse religious and theological perspectives
  • Reflect on the role of reason in the development of their own beliefs and perspectives
  • Know how to use reason in their work for justice.