Religious Education & Family Ministry Update

Welcome, welcome, welcome!  We hope that your summer energies have given way to lots of new learning adventures.  And that the stress of new schedues in September is settling down a bit for you & yours.  Here are a few highlights and invitations for the upcoming month at UUSGS...

NEW SUNDAY RHYTHMS:  

Exciting changes are coming to our Sunday mornings! Beginning Oct.5th, we will be offering two worship services to better serve our growing, inclusive congregation. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a later start, we’ve got you AND YOUR KIDS covered...

New Worship Times:

• 9:30 AM (fewer screens/less technology, plus childcare)
• 11:00 AM (screens/online in the Sactuary, with programming for kids/youth)

Childcare will be available at both services so that families can fully participate in worship while little ones are cared for in a safe, nurturing environment.

Our 11am services (and Oct 12th 10:30 Water Communion service) will offer Religious Education Programming for children aligned with our monthly themes and congregational values. Our Fall program on POLLINATORS explores the big ideas of pluralism (an appreciation for our diversity and perspectives) and interdependence (how we are connected even with bugs and plants). There will be interactive learning for all ages, including hands-on activities for children, guest speakers, and a chance to imagine our own pollinator-friendly garden! To learn more or get involved contact darcie@uuspringfield.org

Welcome to our NEW Childcare Assistants:

We’re thrilled to introduce our new team of youth childcare assistants, who will be joining our childcare program starting this fall! After completing a thorough summer training program, these dedicated young leaders are ready to bring their energy, compassion, and growing skills to our youngest members.

Each of them has worked hard to learn about:

• Creating a safe environment
• Showing kindness and respect to every child
• Supporting curiosity and joy through play and care

Their presence is a wonderful addition to our childcare ministry, and we’re so proud of their commitment to continue to support the children and values of our community.

Please join us in welcoming and encouraging Annika, Obi, and Robbie as they step into this important role! 

Family Meet-Up October 18th:

Join other UUSGS families and friends for a casual afternoon of games and connection. We will be outdoors, weather permitting. You are invited to bring activities and snacks to share, or just drop in. For more information contact darcie@uuspringfield.org or Erin Placey.

Halloween Party! NOVEMBER 1, 2025

A Magical Autumn Soiree: 

• Family Bewitching Hours 4-6pm
• All Soul’s Pub 7-9pm (12+ & Adults)

Dare to join us for a magical evening as we celebrate the time when the veil between worlds is at its thinnest. Immerse yourself in enchantment, revelry, and community as we welcome all spirits with open hearts. Dead or Alive, it is an event for all ages not to be missed. Merriment awaits! Questions & RSVP - darcie@uuspringfield.org or 413-736-2324 ex704

THANK YOU! Another Beautiful Year at UUSGS Camp Retreat!

We’re celebrating another wonderful and spirit-filled year at our annual Camp Retreat! Whether it was your first time attending or a return visit, we are so grateful for the time shared together in such a sacred, peaceful space.

This year’s retreat was filled with moments of self-care and shared work, respite and inspiration, good food and music, meaningful time in nature, small conversations that sparked big connections, time to breathe deeply and just be, and yes—absolutely beautiful fall weather that made it all even better!

It was a time to pause, reconnect with that which fuels us, build community, and remember how important it is to care for ourselves and one another. Thank you to everyone who planned, participated, and brought open hearts and good energy to the weekend. We’re already looking forward to next year (Save the Date - Sept 25-27, 2026)!

Coming Soon…

• “Everybody Sings” - Wednesday’s after supper this October we’re trying out a new group where ANYONE can come sing together, including families with kids!
• November 2nd - for 7th - 12th grade: Join other UU youth on a Gleaning Trip hosted by Rachel’s Table. Sign-Up info coming soon.
• Fireside Club - Date TBD (families of youth please voice your thoughts) Regular opportunity for youth to bring their devices, books, crafts, games, art etc. and enjoy organic interactions and just doing “their thing” in a shared space with good snacks and a few “let’s be social” moments.
• Let’s Talk OWL - Families of youth 7-9th are invited to be in conversation with Darcie about how to structure this year’s 7-9th OWL class (25 units long!).

Stay tuned for more news and updates in our weekly newsletter and online event calendar at UUspringfield.org!