Teen Programs at FUS
For Youth
At the First Unitarian Society, we support young people in their ongoing search for meaning and insight and provide resources as they move into adulthood. There are several types of programs for our youth. Junior High youth attend regular weekly classes. One weekend is chosen each month for youth to attend a portion of an adult service as an essential part of their religious education. This year, we are also offering a class for high school students on Sunday mornings. In addition to regular classes, the following programs provide a bridge from childhood into young adulthood in the Society:
YRUU - Young Religious Unitarian Universalists
Special opportunities for fun, fellowship, community service and spiritual exploration are part of the 14- to 18-year old program known as YRUU. High school teens meet Sundays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Annex during the school year. Working with our Teen Program Coordinator, lay advisors, and the ministers, teens participate in planning their own learning, recreational and service agenda. Registered teens also have an opportunity to attend District and Continental YRUU (Young Religious Unitarian Universalists) overnights and to socialize with their peers from other congregations. Advisors provide focus and feedback, and help our youth to create and sustain a program that meets their needs.
Coming of Age
In a unique program combining study with meaningful experiences, ninth graders can move toward an informed decision about whether to join the Society. Participation in the Coming of Age program requires considerable commitment from youth, their parents, and the congregation. Young people in the program participate in retreats, classes, service, and focused personal reflection. During the year, they raise money through doughnut sales after services to help finance an early summer pilgrimage to Boston. At the end of the program, participants are recognized in a congregational Rite of Passage and, if they wish, may become voting members of our Society.
