Across the Greater Cincinnati Unitarian Universalist (UU) congregations—First Unitarian, The Gathering at Northern Hills, Harmony, Heritage, Hopedale, and St. John’s—you’ll find a consistent philosophy guiding children’s and youth programming: faith development is a lifelong, experiential, and open‑ended process. Rather than teaching doctrine, these congregations nurture curiosity, ethical reflection, and a sense of belonging.
A Welcoming Start: Sunday Morning Programs
Most of these congregations begin Sunday mornings with children participating in the first portion of worship. This shared beginning—often including chalice lighting, music, and a “Time for All Ages”—helps young people feel integrated into the life of the community. Afterward, children typically head to age‑appropriate classes led by trained volunteers or religious educators.
These classes often draw from well‑known UU curricula such as Spirit Play, Toolbox of Faith, Moral Tales, or Our Whole Lives (OWL). The emphasis is on storytelling, hands‑on activities, and exploring values like compassion, justice, and respect for diversity. Congregations like Harmony or Hopedale, which are smaller and more intimate, may offer multi‑age groups that encourage mentoring and collaboration across grade levels.
Youth Groups and Coming‑of‑Age
For middle‑ and high‑school youth, these congregations typically offer programs that blend social connection with deeper ethical and spiritual exploration. Youth groups often meet weekly or biweekly and include discussions, service projects, and social events. Larger congregations—such as First Unitarian or Heritage—may have more structured youth groups with retreats and participation in regional UU youth events.
A signature element of UU youth programming is Coming of Age, a year‑long experience in which teens explore their beliefs, work with adult mentors, and ultimately write and share a personal credo statement.
Our Whole Lives (OWL)
OWL, the comprehensive sexuality education program developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association and the United Church of Christ, is a cornerstone of many UU children and youth ministries. While not every congregation offers every grade level every year, it’s common for these Cincinnati‑area congregations to rotate offerings or partner with one another so families can access the program. OWL emphasizes consent, healthy relationships, identity, and respect—values deeply aligned with UU commitments.
Community, Service, and Multigenerational Life
A defining feature of these congregations is their commitment to multigenerational community. Children and youth are not siloed; they participate in holiday services, social‑justice projects, and congregational traditions. St. John’s and The Gathering at Northern Hills frequently emphasize social justice, giving young people opportunities to engage in service and advocacy. Heritage UU offers two summer camps for children and youth, one focusing on peace and the other for youth who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual.
A Nurturing, Inclusive Ethos
Across all these congregations, the tone of children’s and youth programming is intentionally inclusive. Families of all configurations are welcomed. Children with diverse learning styles or needs are supported. The goal is not to shape belief but to cultivate ethical, compassionate, and curious young people who feel at home in a community that honors their questions.
Photos: Children and youth at a UU church. Photos courtesy of Claire Wagner.
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