Photos by Michael Gibson
ith a theme of Awakening Minds and Hearts, about 130 Friends gathered in August to explore various aspects of Religious Education at a beautiful retreat center in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.The conference was sponsored by the FGC Religious Education Committee with support from the Long Range Conference Planning Committee and the local Friends of Harrisonburg Meeting.
Adults attended Workshops and Interest Groups on topics such as First Day School Programs for children, teens, and adults, nurturing teachers, Quaker parenting, using the Bible in Friends meetings, adult seekers, diversity and bias awareness, multicultural activities, intergenerational Worship, curriculum, and "being patterns and examples."
Children from infant to 12 years participated in a Jr. Program where they focused on ways to open themselves to the living Spirit every day.
Each morning began in small, intergenerational Cluster Groups for guided worship, sharing and community building. The evenings were highlighted by a speaker and more community building activities.
A bookstore of Quaker resources was a popular place to browse and purchase materials for home meetings. Friends also enjoyed engaging in discussions around the meal tables, outside on the lovely porches, and nestled into comfortable lounge areas in the lobby.
There were times for singing, games, crafts, dances of peace, swimming, walks, and quiet reflection.
The Planning committee for this RE conference saw many times, and in many ways, that minds and hearts were awakened. Both attenders and leaders were refreshed and renewed in their calling to religious education.
If you know someone who attended this fruitful event, don't hesitate to ask them to share some of what they learned!
If you would like more information about RE programs, resources, or future events please contact Michael Gibson at the FGC office at michaelg@fgcquaker.org or 215-561-1700.
