Becky Brooks
Director of Religious Education
Becky Brooks joined the staff of First Unitarian in the fall of 2006. Her love of religious education work began as a volunteer youth advisor at her home congregation in Eugene, Oregon when she was in college. In graduate school and throughout professional development work, Becky has studied with some of the preeminent practitioners of Unitarian Universalist religious education at all age levels. Becky earned a Masters of Divinity at Starr King School for the Ministry and holds a BA in English from the University of Oregon. Currently she serves as President of the Greater Washington Area Religious Educators Council, a cluster of the Joseph Priestly District's Chapter of the Liberal Religious Educators Association (LREDA).
Website URL: http://bit.ly/uLZRUo E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Board passes resolution to support voting rights for youth
Wednesday, 04 April 2012 13:25 Published in RE-Connect BaltimoreThe Board of Trustees of the First Unitarian Church of Baltimore passes a resolution in support of the Youth Adult Committee's voting rights proposal at their meeting on March 20:
• Whereas the Youth Adult Committee has diligently researched the advisability of allowing Youth to Vote, and
• Whereas the YAC has surveyed the congregation, winning the support of at least sixty-five members, and
• Whereas the 5th UUA principle discusses the use of the Democratic Process, and
• Whereas our own Bylaws prohibit age-based discrimination, and
• Whereas we acknowledge Coming of Age as a rite of Passage into Religious Adulthood,
The Trustees of FUCB(UU) declare that it is advisable to amend Article IV of the the congregational constitution and Article II section 4 of the Bylaws in keeping with the YAC’s recommendations in the following manner:
"Members of the church WHO HAVE COMPLETED THE COMING OF AGE PROGRAM, or who are eighteen years or older, have been members for the preceding three months, and who in addition, have either participated in the activities of the church or have made a recorded financial contribution to the church are eligible to vote at meetings of the congregation."
The Board will present the YAC's proposed Constitutional and Bylaw amendment at the Annual Congregational Meeting on April 22. The ammendment will be up for a vote at the next Congregational meeting, either a special meeting or the regularly scheduled Annual Meeting. In either case, the ammendment requires a 2/3 majority vote to be enacted, for both the Constitution and the Bylaws.
(also to appear in April's issue of The Beacon):
[T]he Youth Adult Committee is proposing a change to the Constitution and Bylaws of our congregation to allow youth the right to vote at congregational meetings. I staunchly support this proposal for many reasons. My desire for our youth to have a say in matters than concern them is a deeply held religious value. I greatly admire the passion and commitment I have seen in UU youth throughout my career and believe congregations can only benefit by youth applying that passion and commitment to congregational leadership. But even more than this, my interest in supporting this proposal is pedagogical.
Much has been said recently about the fact that our brains do not finish developing nearly as early as previously believed. Biologically, the pre-frontal cortex of a teen's brain has not finished developing, leading many teens to tend to act before they think. This understanding undergirds some people's gut feeling that teens, (especially young teens) may not have the maturity needed to vote responsibly.
At first glance, this is a compelling reason to restrict teens' access to things requiring higher executive function, but it would be short-sighted to imagine that's the whole story. We are not characters in The Matrix, waiting for Voting Responsibility to be downloaded into our brains like Kung Fu at age 18. The story of our brain is far more complex than that. Beginning around puberty, our brain is enormous. It's full of possibility, but not skill. Then it begins to lose cells. We begin to specialize. Did you know your brain lights up when it hears that song you listened to a million times when you were 14? You probably even remember all the words even if you can't remember what you had for breakfast this morning. Adolescence is, biologically speaking, the time in our lives when the skills we will use through the rest of our lives are being hardwired. The things we choose to do in those years, the skills we focus on, practice and use, are the skills that stay.
As an educator, I must look ahead to the hopes and dreams I have for the future of our congregation, our movement and our society, when I work to support Unitarian Universalist youth. I want our youth to understand their role in Unitarian Universalism and society at large to be one of great value. I want our youth to know the power of their vote, to understand the work it requires to create justice, and to have a religious core that helps sustain them. If we want adolescent UUs to become adult UUs, engaged participants in striving for justice and growing this movement, NOW is the time to develop those skills.
This is why Coming of Age is so important. In Unitarian Universalist congregations across the continent, youth in 7th-9th grades participate in Coming of Age programs. In many cultures there is a moment, often during puberty, when children are asked to make a transition into a new role. Coming of Age is a religious education program that helps youth understand themselves within a context of Unitarian Universalism, and helps them discern and articulate their own spirituality. Youth are paired with an adult mentor to listen and guide their own thoughtful religious development. This program is extensive, over twenty sessions long, with lessons on UU history and theology, discussions of theological and social justice issues, and challenging spiritual seeking. The culmination of this program requires youth to create their own "faith statement," a snapshot articulation of their own beliefs. In my career I have presided over many Coming of Age services and after every single one, adult congregants have asked me if such a program could be offered for adult UUs. It is a powerful program, designed to embody our shared UU value of a "free and responsible search for truth and meaning." When the postlude has finished echoing through the hall and the Coming of Age graduates have finished their service, they have been given the tools we are able to give them in order for them to decide whether or not they wish to be members of our congregation.
In the post-Coming of Age years (9th-12th grades) our youth programs are self-guided. We no longer prescribe particular curricula. Youth choose their own projects, guided by their own interests and passions. Adult advisors assist the youth in carrying out their plans and projects, guiding, listening, and supporting. In the past several years the youth of First Unitarian have planned and executed fundraising concerts, regional youth conferences, service-related field trips, and more.
But if we decide after Coming of Age is done that we have no interest as a congregation in helping the youth practice the democratic process, or understand church budgeting, or make decisions regarding the future of this congregation, we are not only depriving the congregation of a diverse set of voices, we are failing to help these adolescents practice a vital part of what it means to be a UU.
I, for one, want the free and responsible search for truth and meaning, the use of the democratic process, and all our principles, to be in amongst those hardwired things. I want our youth to keep those skills for life. I want them to change the world and I want us to help them do it. Enfranchisement is a powerful thing. I believe we are a better congregation for expanding it to our youth.
Youth Adult Committee Advocates Voting Rights for Youth
Sunday, 11 March 2012 14:01 Published in RE-Connect Baltimore
by YAC Co-Chairs, Emily Cross-Barnet and Carrie DiGregorio
The youth of the church raised an important voting rights issue at the last Annual Meeting: the church is not currently including all voices in its decision making. So we, the Youth Adult Committee (composed of all the youth, all the youth advisors, and the DRE) have been debating and exploring with other members of the congregation what it would take to enfranchise members who have been through the Coming of Age process.
The committee has concluded that the following must be considered in decisions of youth voting rights:
• Unitarian Universalist Principles
• Church Constitution and Bylaws
• Congregational practice within Unitarian Universalism
• Coming of Age as religious formation and preparation for membership
• Legal matters
Our Unitarian Universalist Principles affirm that all members deserve a voice. The fifth Unitarian Universalist Principle states: "[We affirm] the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large." In Religious Education classes and youth programs throughout Unitarian Universalism, we are taught that an important UU value is that all persons should have a vote about the things that concern them. Youth members of the congregation do not exist in a separate category from other members of the congregation. Everything that affects the congregation affects youth as well.
Our own bylaws prohibit age-based discrimination.
“Section 2. Non-Discrimination Clause. In concurrence with the bylaws of the Unitarian Universalist Association, we declare and affirm our special responsibility and that of our members to promote the full acceptance into membership and participation of persons in all of our activities and in the full range of human endeavor without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, physical or mental challenge, affectional or sexual orientation, age or national origin.”
It is common practice in UU congregations for youth to have full-membership status, including voting rights.
In Maryland and throughout the country, many UU Congregations understand voting rights for youth to be part of our core values. Youth enfranchisement is an important tool in helping young people understand the responsibility of becoming an educated and thoughtful participant in democratic systems. UU Congregations of Annapolis, Rockville, River Road, and more all grant voting rights to youth.
Youth must be thoroughly prepared before becoming members. Before any youth would be allowed the right to be a voting member, they would have to complete the Coming of Age Program. This program is acknowledged by the UUA as the transition from youth to religious adulthood. It is designed for teens. The program involves weekly, two-hour meetings over the course of approximately 6 months as well as weekend retreats and service projects. Coming of Age participants work with adult leaders and with a spiritual mentor. Coming of Age helps youth discern for themselves what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist, individually and as part of the larger faith community. To complete Coming of Age, participants make a public faith statement to the entire church community. This program is far more extensive than the Beginners class that is required for new members 18 and over. (For more on the importance and value of Coming of Age please see the DLRE column elsewhere in this issue of the Beacon.)
In our research we have found no legal obstruction to giving a vote to church members under age 18. In the past there were members who were concerned that there may be legal implications of allowing minors to vote. We are not aware of any statute or case law that would indicate this. Many Maryland churches, including Unitarian Universalist congregations, allow youth under the age of 18 to vote.
Not every youth will choose to become a member of this congregation, but those who do care deeply about its well-being and take the right to vote very seriously. YAC members recognize being a voting member should be based on demonstrated commitment, responsibility, and maturity. In accordance with the importance of voting rights and the concerns expressed by some members of the congregation, our proposal holds youth who wish to become full voting members to an even higher standard than adult church members.
For more information about this issue, see our Frequently Asked Questions brochure, contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or attend our Informational meeting after worship on April 8. Be an informed voter!
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Proposed addition to the church’s constitution (in italics):
Article IV: Qualification to Vote
Members of the church who have completed the Coming of Age Program or who are eighteen years or older, have been members for the preceding three months, and who in addition, have either participated in the activities of the church or have made a recorded financial contribution to the church are eligible to vote at meetings of the congregation.
Mystery Buddies Registration Begins
Wednesday, 08 February 2012 11:17 Published in RE-Connect BaltimoreIn this fun intergenerational program, kids and adults or youth are matched in Mystery Buddy pairs, with the goal of getting to know a little more about each other every week until identities are revealed on March 25. Adults, youth and kids who sign up to participate will choose a mystery code name, fill out a questionnaire and decorate a mailbag. Pairs will exchange clues each Sunday March 4-25 (see the back of this page for some ideas). It has never been easier to sign up because for the first time, you can submit an online registration form! If you prefer, you can also find paper sign-up sheets at the RE table after church each Sunday in February or you can download a copy here.
How does it work? Every Sunday before service in March, mailbags will be out by the front doors of the church, ready to accept letters and small homemade gifts* from both older and younger participants. After service begins, mailbags will be moved to the Parish Hall for coffee hour when participants can check their mailbags for that weeks’ clue. The event will culminate in a potluck breakfast on March 25 when Mystery Buddy identities will be discovered!
(*we ask that you spend no more than $5 over the course of the month on any gifts for your Mystery Buddy)
Who can participate? Anyone under the age of 18 can be a “younger” buddy and anyone over 12 can be an “older” buddy (youth can choose to be an older or a younger). All participants are asked to exchange at least a little clue each of the four weeks (either in person or by proxy—just let Director of Lifespan RE, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , know if you will miss a week).
Not sure what to give to your Mystery Buddy? Check out the list below for some suggestions.
• a picture or photo of your pet (past or present) and a note about him or her
• a letter with some clues about yourself and what you like about Unitarian Universalism
• a picture or map of the town where you were born
• found objects like shells or pebbles and a little story about where or how you found them
• a postcard from a place you enjoyed visiting or living
• a word search with hidden words that describe you or your hobbies
• a list or picture of some of your favorite foods and maybe a simple recipe on how to make one of them
• a homemade cookie and a note about when or how you learned to make them, or maybe a story or picture about who taught you to bake
• a mix tape or CD of some of your favorite music
• a handmade bookmark with words or pictures about your favorite books or characters
Feel free to use any of these or your own creativity to craft clues to your identity. Remember that there will be four weeks of clues (March 4, 11, 18 and 25). Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it if you have questions. I hope you'll join in the fun!
Parent Orientation for OWL (10th-12th Grades) Scheduled for Feb. 1
Wednesday, 18 January 2012 13:15 Published in RE-Connect BaltimoreWe are pleased to offer the Our Whole Lives Sexuality Education program for youth in 10th-12th grades beginning in February. All youth in these grades are invited to participate, whether or not they are members of our church community. Our mandatory Parent Orientation session will be held Wednesday evening, Feb. 1, 7-9 pm. (It is not necessary for youth to attend the Parent Orientation.) Class sessions will be Sunday afternoons, with two overnights. A full schedule will be announced soon. Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information or to let us know you'll be coming.
Each year in December the sparkling gems of our holiday worship life shine. I hope you'll join us for your choice of these family-friendly services:
Winter Solstice Ritual, Thursday, Dec. 22, 7:00 pm
Join in turning of the wheel of the year. Celebrate the New Year and the return of the light. Welcome the newborn babes. Give thanks for seasonal blessings. Taste the sweetness of life. The ritual will include songs, poetry, and symbolic extinguishing of the old year’s fire and lighting of the new. Ancient peoples around the world marked this event—in structures, stories, and feasts. Come and carry on the earth-honoring tradition! Children and infants are warmly welcome. Festive reception in Enoch Pratt Parish Hall will follow. The ritual was created by Patricia Montley, author of "In Nature’s Honor: Myths and Rituals Celebrating the Earth" (Skinner House Books), and long-time member of our congregation.
Christmas Eve Pageant, Potluck and Candlelight service, Saturday, Dec. 24, 6:00 pm
Christmas festivities begin at 6:00 pm with an early service especially for our youngest folk. This service will feature an original pageant, "The Friendly Beasts," written by church member, Rebecca Wald and starring a host of talented kids. Special thanks to Matt and Monica Hetrick for directing this year! Following this service we will join for a potluck dinner in our Pratt Parish Hall. At 8:00 pm, join us for a candlelight service in the spirit of the Christmas season, led by Rev. David Carl Olson.
Something for everyone of every age! See you in church!
All Ages Dance Party & Potluck, Dec. 16, 6:00 pm
Sunday, 11 December 2011 12:01 Published in RE-Connect Baltimore
by Michael DeLeon-Walker
A House for Hope by John A.Buehrens and Rebecca Ann Parker is a well written introduction to progressive theology. The basic problem it addresses is "how can progressives present a cogent and grounded position alternative to the widely accepted fundamentalist outlook on the place of religion in society. How can we repair the broken elements of society without losing hope?"
If we come together in honesty and humility to build our own congregation, if we have the fire of love, then we can speak our convictions loudly in the marketplace. Let us carry it on.
The theology is a framework. We choose the colors to weave on it. Let them be the colors of our committed lives.
Our JY Group (6th-8th grades) spent November and December fundraising, with a culminating trip to the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter to donate the $225 they raised. Advisors Gina Foringer, Hannah Roberts, and Marta Mills accompanied the group on their visit, where they got a tour of BARCS and met with staff to make their donation.
If you missed the opportunity to donate but would like to support BARCS, you can make a direct donation on their website. If you're looking for other ways to support the social justice work of the children and youth of the church, keep watch for the next opportunity, which will be our Questers' project, "Food, Glorious Food," which will raise funds and food donations to benefit the Maryland Food Bank.
Are you on the look-out for ways to make your holiday dollars meaningful for both your families and the economy? Check out the Unitarian Universalist Association's Bookstore for some great gift options for the children and adults in your family. Here are a few suggestions. See the bookstore's varied inventory for more ideas.
The Kids' Book of Awesome Stuff
A Child's Book of Animal Poems and Blessings
A Child's Book of Blessings and Prayers
Everybody is Important: A Kids' Guide to Our Seven Principles
Meet Jesus: The Life and Lessons of a Beloved Teacher
The Everything Seed: A story of beginnings
A Lamp in Every Corner: A UU Storybook
Aisha's Moonlit Walk: Stories and Celebrations for the Pagan Year
For more ideas, visit the UUA Bookstore!
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About First Unitarian Church of Baltimore
Location: 12 W. Franklin St:
Corner of Charles and Franklin Streets in Downtown Baltimore
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