God Power

By Mary Ann Moore

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Theme and Description

This 15-session curriculum for grades 7-8 seeks to explore the concepts of God and Power, and the combining of those concepts to create God Power. Manifestations of divinity in this world are seen as the workings of power defined not as “control” but as the creative forces that abound in the universe and in us.

Goals for Participants

To explore a variety of concepts and images that are compatible with our Unitarian Universalist principles;
To explore the concept of power;
To combine concepts of God and power into an understanding of God Power;
To understand God Power as physical, mental, ethical, and spiritual energy;
To understand God Power as both immanent and transcendent;
To explore practices for putting God Power to work;
To connect abstract concepts about God Power to the concrete lives of young people;
To express personal views and feelings about God Power.”

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Age Range

Grades 7-8/Ages 12-13

Size of Group

Flexible

Space Requirements

A regular-sized RE classroom should work well for most sessions. However, a larger space may be required for sessions that include skits. A table and chairs will suit some groups. A rug and pillows will be better for other groups.

Number and Length of Sessions

15 sessions
Length: 1 hour

Leader Training

No special training is required. This class may be team-taught or led by a solo teacher.

Leader Preparation

1-2 hours

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Strengths

Includes excellent leader background material.
Uses a variety of activities to address a variety of learning styles.
Each of the sessions stands alone as a single unit.
The 15 sessions may be scheduled for consecutive weeks or throughout a year.
Affirms Unitarian Universalist values of unity, oneness, interdependence, transcendence, mystery, justice, compassion, and ethical action.
Encourages young people to nurture and express the creative side of themselves.
Addresses big religious questions and fosters UU faith development.
Encourages parental involvement.

Adaptability

Can be used from grades 6-9.
Sessions can be scheduled for consecutive weeks throughout the year.

Unitarian Universalist Values

Includes the Unitarian Universalist Principles and Sources explicitly and throughout the cosmology presented in this program.

Reviewed on June 30, 1996

Unitarian Universalist Association
25 Beacon St. | Boston, MA 02108 | 617-742-2100