First Universalist Churchof Minneapolis
In the Universalist spirit of love and hope,
we give, receive and grow.

We seek to support families in raising hopeful, compassionate children who offer fair and kind treatment to all, yearn to learn and grow, honor the interdependence of all life, and stand for peace, love and freedom.

Our ministries to children and youth welcome them to bring their whole selves – just as they are – with all their energy, enthusiasm, joys and concerns. We strive to provide an experience of church as a place where they find friends, meaning, fun, and comfort; where they ask big questions, explore life’s mysteries and challenges, listen to others’ ideas, and share their own; where they try out and develop spiritual practice that will serve them throughout their lives; and where they consider wisdom from a variety of sources, including the worlds’ great religions, poets, scientists, seekers, teachers, and the quiet voice within.

At every age, our children are offered age-appropriate curricula to help them find their way into a community that supports their spiritual development. Our lessons emphasize that we are all on a journey, and that the journey is best experienced in the company of others so that we might help one another along the way. We say that ours is “the church of open minds, loving hearts and helping hands.”

Toddlers and preschoolers (ages 2-5 years) learn that church is a fun place full of friends of all ages. They become familiar with our space and the rhythm of our Sunday mornings together, sharing stories, play, arts and crafts, circle time and snack.

Our kindergarteners and 1st graders learn about the Rainbow Path, which introduces the principles of Unitarian Universalism as a guide to making choices, caring for others, creating a fair and peaceful world, and being true to oneself. Each of the colors of the rainbow is linked with a UU principle in simple, memorable language. Stories, games and crafts bring the principles to life.

Our 2nd through 5th graders begin their morning in Children’s Chapel, a sacred space filled with music, story and simple ritual, much of which is participatory and led by the children themselves. The brief service gives kids a way to connect with UU worship elements (like lighting the chalice) and cherished hymns, so they develop a sense of being grounded and held in the loving arms of our liberal faith tradition.

Following Children’s Chapel, the 2nd - 5th grade children are excused to their Religious Education classes, which offer a variety of activities to inspire spiritual exploration, growth and connections with others. Lessons for this age group are drawn from the Tapestry of Faith curricula, which the Unitarian Universalist Association developed for UU congregations. We appreciate Tapestry of Faith because it is active, fun, deep, and engaging for a diverse group of children with various needs and interests. Tapestry of Faith classes draw wisdom from many sources (/welcome/aboutUU), teach UU values, heritage and theology, and incorporate social, racial and environmental justice throughout the lessons.

Our 6th graders are in a liminal time of life and an important stage of spiritual development. Not really children but not yet teens, they demand Religious Education classes that are relevant, down to earth and a bit irreverent. We deliver, with a creative curriculum entitled A Questing Year. Kids are encouraged to be creative, speak their minds, and practice building a safe, fun and welcoming environment for all.

All children and youth enrolled in Religious Education at First Universalist are invited to social events and family activities throughout the year. Overnights, field trips, social justice and service work encourage friendships, deepen the spiritual journey, and help them put their faith in context outside the classroom.

We ask families to formally register their children for nursery care or Religious Education classes after two to four visits. you register your child, you help us plan and staff our classrooms appropriately, and you make a commitment to giving your child the gift of a welcoming, accepting church community.

Questions? Contact Lauren Wyeth, Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministries, by email (lauren@firstuniv.org) or phone 612-825-1701 x111.