Only a small part of the religious growth and learning experienced by any child takes place in the formal setting of the classroom. Much more takes place within the family, whether or not there is any attempt at conscious religious teaching. Moreover, the child’s religious growth and learning are much greater when the teachings of the classroom are supported by the family’s strong involvement with the church. For these reasons, we work to promote family involvement in the church community and to support parents in their efforts to rear their children in a ways that are consistent with the values of Unitarian Universalism. Family supportive activities include:

Adult Education/Parent Classes
Consult the website Events and Calendar, bulletin boards and the newsletter for more details.

Covenant Groups
Are you seeking interactive opportunities to experience spiritual deepening and sharing with other Unitarian Universalists? Covenant groups are small groups of 8-10 people, lead by facilitators, who meet regularly to discuss various issues and share spiritual/life journeys. They provide a more intimate church experience than many larger events, and help build connections in the church community. They have become increasingly popular at Unitarian Universalist churches all over the county in recent years.

Intergenerational Services
There will be several opportunities throughout the year for all ages to celebrate and worship together in the sanctuary. The dates will be posted in the Religious Education calendar.

Family Activities
Contingent upon volunteer coordination and sufficient interest, we hope to host periodic events, such as family dinners, parties, social action projects, and fun intergenerational activities.

Family Email List/Updates
If you wish to receive weekly email updates of Religious Education happenings, please write your email address and check the box on the Religious Education registration form, or email the Religious Education Assistant (ReligiousEdAsst@UUAsheville.org).

Childcare for Church Events and Meetings
Our church has made a commitment to offering childcare at all major church events to promote family participation. Groups hosting church events should contact the Early Childhood Coordinator (828-254-6001 Ext. 210 / UUCAChildcare@UUAsheville.org) at least two weeks before an event to request childcare.

Parents’ Night Out
Parents’ Night Out (PNO) is a family cooperative program available to UUCA Members and Friends and their children. PNO provides quality, fun childcare for up to three-and-a-half hours on selected Friday nights while promoting friendship and community among the UUCA’s families. Parents work cooperatively to have most Friday nights off in exchange for providing a rotating night of coverage. PNO runs two sessions: September-December and January-May. For more information and scheduled dates, contact the Religious Education Assistant (ReligiousEdAsst@UUAsheville.org / 828-254-6001 Ext. 205).