Extracurricular Activities
Outside of the core Sunday School curriculum, children also participate in a variety of activities that involve members of the Ethical Society congregation. These programs are founded on the belief that a community needs to cherish and honor all of its members. They are a chance for all ages to have fun, learn from each other, and grow together spiritually. Some of the programs are as follows:
Children’s Sunday Gathering
From 10-11 a.m. the whole Sunday School gathers as a group for activities, presentations, meditation, sharing, group games, and community building. We focus on the children’s spiritual development during this hour. By spiritual we mean developing the sense of connectedness between us all and an appreciation for the world and all it gives us. We are always interested in parents and members who want to volunteer their time for this hour to lead a discussion, share a story or a favorite recipe, teach us yoga, or share something about themselves and their Ethical journey. Providing an excellent means for the adult community to interact with children of the Society, these classes are a perennial favorite with little and big kids alike.
Secret Friends' Society
In this program, regularly held in the fall, adult members of the Society volunteer to become a child's Secret Friend. For several weeks, the adult sends messages to the child without revealing his/her identity. Everyone finds out who is who at a special party. In an effort to maintain the relationships we start in the fall, we have an additional Secret Friends activity in the spring to bring us back together with the friends we made early in the year. Activities have included bowling parties and picnics in the park with games and fun for all. This has been a perennial favorite with the kids and adults alike.
Recognition Breakfast
This is our way of showing all of our volunteers in the Sunday School just how much we appreciate them. The last Sunday of each season is celebrated with food, fun, presentations and a slide show with pictures of all of our activities throughout the year. Volunteers are needed to help with the many different aspects of this special day.
Festivals
The Sunday School plays a key role in the various festivals celebrated by the congregation.
Special Events
In addition to the Sunday Children’s Gathering, the elementary children also have monthly assemblies. These assemblies are conducted by our Director of Religious Education, the Society leader and special guests. These gatherings are focused on a particular topic such as holiday celebrations, a peace assembly, or they may be a performance by a local actor, singer or dance group. They could also be events that the Sunday School kids themselves request, such as a pet party. These are opportunities for the whole group to come together for learning and fun. Your suggestions and participation are welcomed and valued.