How is Whole Church RE “Stronger Together?”

There were 25 people sitting in a circle in the Ely room at the end of May. Everyone chose the snacks and coloring sheets they wanted; we lit a chalice and invited check-ins. Those present were curious to imagine what next year might bring. Specifically, how might the programs we’ve previously called “faith formation,” “forums,” and “music” overlap and interact?

That day I introduced the concept of
a “Whole Church RE” approach. It’s an
approach that, in a nutshell, means we
create opportunities for children, youth,
and adults to engage in learning
and exploring – together. 

PCUU has been holding multigenerational worship services since before the pandemic – for over 7 years. Obviously, Peoples Church already has experience with being together as a community for all ages.  

The next phase of leaning into a Whole Church RE approach might include setting up a schedule of opportunities for the “First Hour” of Sunday mornings (that is, 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.). While I offered a list of brainstorms to those gathered, some prerefences rose to the top. Opportunities for cross-generational relationship building and spiritual deepening in 2026-2027 might include: 

  • All-ages choir rehearsals and worship offerings

  • Secret friends crafting and joy-making

  • Multigenerational explorations of the Common Read, Love at the Center

  • Sidewalk chalk theology activities

  • ___________ (fill in the blank by emailing minister@pcuu.org) 

This month we’re kicking off our Annual Budget Drive with the “Stronger Together” Stewardship Campaign. This is the season when we put our money where our mouth is, making financial commitments for the year ahead so that our programs and operations can be funded in ways that help us all live out our callings. “Stronger Together” is what will make “Whole Church RE” come alive – and vice versa. Please join me for the adventure ahead!

With Love at the Center, 

Rev. Carin