Seventh and eighth graders follow a two year course of study loosely based on the Unitarian Universalist (UU) curriculum, “Neighboring Faiths.” In the first year the focus is “Wisdom of the World’s Religions,” and the second year’s theme is “Our Jewish and Christian Heritage.”

Each religion being explored will begin with a DVD introduction, overview and discussion, then visits to neighboring houses of worship. Often, a guest who practices the religion being studied will visit the class and offer his or her knowledge of that faith.

This engaging two year program for 7/8th graders invites the participant to, “reflect on the unique and universal religious experience, explore their own values as they relate to other faith traditions, become more aware of the many connections between Unitarian Universalism and other faith traditions, strengthen their commitment to the Unitarian Universalist faith and community, increase their understanding and appreciation of religious diversity, and build relationships with their peers, adult leaders, the congregation, and the wider community.” 2012/2013 is a "Our Jewish and Christian Heritage" year.

Our Whole Lives (OWL)

Designed specifically for middle school youth, OWL is an excellent, comprehensive human sexuality curriculum that helps participants gain the knowledge, values, and skills to lead sexually healthy, responsible lives. Offered in partnership with Follen Church, another Unitarian Universalist congregation in Lexington, the 2012-2013 class for 8th graders begins in late September 2012, on Wednesday evenings at Follen Church. 

A "get-to-know-you" gathering for the 8th graders (with ice cream sundaes included!) is scheduled for Wednesday evening, September 19th from 7:00 - 8:30 pm at First Parish, followed by a mandatory parent/guardian informational session on Wednesday, September 26th from 7:00 - 9:30 pm, also at First Parish.  The first class for 8th graders will begin at Follen from 6:30 - 9:00 pm on Wednesday, October 3rd, dinner included.  The class will be closed to newcomers after October 3rd.

Junior Youth Group

Junior Youth Group (JYG) is designed to bring 7/8th grade youth together in a relaxed and safe environment where they will be honored for the individuals that they are, each bringing their unique gifts to the group. 

Like OWL (above), JYG is a collaborative effort with Follen Church.  Led by a team of volunteer advisors and the Youth Programs Coordinators of each church, Junior Youth Group meets twice a month, once on the third Sunday evening of the month, from 7:00 - 8:30 pm, and again on either a Saturday or  Sunday afternoon or evening for a social action project, or for a social event.  Activities have included such perennial delights as snow tubing at Nashoba Valley, a "Yankee Swap" Christmas party, joining others from the congregations for a day of service, and participation in a congregational work day at the Food Project in Lincoln, MA. 

Check the RG&L web-calendar for specific dates and events.  The complete calendar will also be emailed to participating families.  Chaperones are needed for every event, and parent/guardians of the 7/8th graders are encouraged to join in  the fun.