Teaching children about religion and atheism is Jan. 7 topic

The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware will host an in-person discussion titled Teaching Our Children About Religion and Atheism from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 7, at 30486 Lewes Georgetown Highway, Lewes.

This event is free and open to the public, with free parking at UUSD. The forum will bring attendees together for information and conversation on how they think children should be educated about religious and secular ways of living, including religious beliefs, atheism, agnosticism and humanism.

Speakers will refer to approaches taken in two books. One is “We of Little Faith: Why I Stopped Pretending to Believe (And Maybe You Should Too)” by Kate Cohen. The other is “Religious Literacy: What Every American Needs to Know – And Doesn't,” by Stephen Protero.

This meeting is for religious and non-religious people who seek freethinking conversation with kindness and respect for different points of view. All are invited to seek truth, meaning and purpose in life. Those who believe in a supernatural world will join atheists and agnostics to focus on how they want to educate young people about what is important in life. What role should religious education play in the home and in schools? Should children be taught about the history of religious and non-religious beliefs? Does religion have any place in schools? What is the responsibility of adults in the formation of the next generation? How have attendees’ beliefs changed over time?

UUSD is a welcoming and progressive spiritual community with a faith rooted in love and justice. Its mission is to nurture spiritual growth, embrace diversity, work for justice and strive for a loving world. For more information, contact Charles Bittner at c.bittner@uussd.org or go to uussd.org.