Maria Harris, in her 1989 book, Fashion Me A People, wrote about the curriculum of community. In many ways, the monthly themes are a means of creating a curriculum of community. The word “curriculum” means a “course to be run.” The thematic materials help shape the “course” that the congregation “runs.” Our theme-based ministry program includes the following:

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1. Touchstones Journal, a high-quality, 8-page publication you email to all members and friends of your congregation at the beginning of the month to introduce the theme.

2. Worship Resource Packet, a 30 to 50 page Word document with diverse selections in 12 areas to design at least two complete worship services. While this is used by ministers, it is especially valuable to lay members seeking to develop and lead a high-quality worship service.

3. REACH Packet, a 50 to 80+ page Word document that provides extensive lifespan RE resources in 10 areas for children, youth & adults.

4. Two Small Group Discussion Guides: The first focuses on the monthly theme, while the second connects the monthly theme to the annual theme.

5. Faith In Action Packet offers suggestions for activities and events to explore the theme with the congregation and with participants from the wider community the congregation serves.

6. Monthly Social Media Plan to share engaging materials related to the theme including netcards, etc.

7. Netcards are an "internet postcard" that combine a thoughtful quote and an engaging photograph with 31 provided each month.

8. Free support to assist implementation.

 

These materials can make it possible for the congregation to “do the work of the church in the world” in compelling ways. They facilitate worship and lifespan program planning and implementation, deepen understandings of Unitarian Universalism, enrich a congregation’s sense of religious community, provide extensive resources to facilitate shared ministry, and encourage collaboration among staff and volunteers. This whole-church approach creates a synergy that can foster renewed vision as the congregation works to bring the congregation of tomorrow into being.