Summer has its own rhythm on the Vancouver Unitarians campus. It’s beautiful and sunny and time feels slower and less hectic than other times of the year–most noticeable by many fewer emails! Many of us on staff have taken vacation time with family and friends, time camping or travelling, or simply not being in the office. I am most grateful for the wonderful team of seven volunteers who looked after children on Sundays this summer with our Can-do creative activities. I was able to take Sundays off work and the children who attended have had fun making forts, fairy houses, toothpick creations, and launching paper airplanes from the Sanctuary balcony (my personal favourite).
The land of Integria was back on campus after a year’s hiatus for our fantastic Magical Mayhem Camp. We had fourteen children from across metro-Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast, ranging in age from 7-12. We explored classism and how greed, self-importance, and only looking out for oneself ties in to unequal access to the things we need in life. We used the language of casting magic to explore how we can use our voice and actions to bring about change and advocate for a just society. A little dragon named Gort caused mischief through the week stealing things for their horde but all was made right when the kids taught him about making friends and working together to help each other. It truly was a magical week and we are all looking forward to next summer already.
Alex Okrainetz is joining Vancouver Unitarian staff as our new Youth Coordinator and Casey Stainsby is filling the new role of Middle Years Coordinator to lead our Crossing Paths group and support our 10-12 year olds. We were sad to say goodbye to Olivia at the end of July, but I am confident that we are building a solid team of staff and volunteers working together for our children, youth, and families. When you see Casey and Alex on campus be sure to give them a warm thank you and welcome!
As we move into the fall our Sunday classes are resuming, including Crossing Paths (learning about neighbouring religions in Vancouver), a new Coming of Age cohort, and Our Whole Lives sexuality education for Sr. High (grades 11 and 12). It is a wonderful time to get involved with children and youth programs and there are many ways you can support this vital ministry. If you think you could be one of the Stars of RE (big, bright, or small) go ahead and let me know with the link below.
Returning families do need to register for the new program year, this helps us stay up to date with your child’s needs, allergies, photo permissions, and contact information. Registration also helps us plan age appropriate and specific programs.
More information about programs, orientations, dinners, circle worship, and more will be on the website and in the regular eWeekly and Family Newsletters. Let the office know if you don’t receive the weekly or family news and would like to.
Here is looking forward to a strong and nourishing year together!
–Kiersten Moore
Lifespan Faith Development Director