Giving Thanks November
November 2025
As our congregations welcome new faces this season, we strengthen our connections by creating welcoming spaces where children and adults feel valued and cared for. This is also a good time for the BridgesUU team to offer guidance, resources, and encouragement to communities growing their Religious Education programs.
Offerings for Children and Youth
Many of our smaller congregations are eager to grow family-friendly offerings and Religious Education programs. Often, the challenge is that there is more desire than infrastructure, and more hope than immediate resources. BridgesUU was created to meet congregations right where they are. We offer tools, materials, and companionship so that every congregation, no matter its size, can extend a spirit of welcome and belonging to families with children.
One of the ways we are supporting this growth is through the learning trays and backpacks we share with every child who visits a participating congregation. Each first time visiting child receives a backpack or learning tray filled with fun activities, books, and tools for spiritual exploration. And every time that child returns, they are invited into new adventures that build on their journey. At the heart of these materials is Bennie the Beaver, a character I created to accompany children along the way. Beavers are builders. They shape rivers, create pathways, and make bridges. Bennie reminds every child they too can be a builder of curiosity, creativity, and connection.
These resources are more than just activities. They are part of a wider commitment from BridgesUU to walk alongside congregations, helping them grow programs that nurture the spiritual lives of children and families. And congregations are never alone in this effort. Our virtual office is always open for conversation, recommendations, and ongoing support.
As the season calls us to share our harvest, may we embrace this moment as Unitarian Universalists to continue building together with creativity, and radical welcome. Just as Bennie the Beaver reminds children they are builders, we too are builders of bridges between people, communities, and generations.
Offerings For Adults
For adults, we offer engaging opportunities to reflect, learn, and connect with others in our community. Our programs provide space to explore personal theology, the heart and future of Unitarian Universalism, and growth through dialogue, creativity, and the wisdom gained from our unique life experiences.
Becoming UU
When: Tuesday Evenings ( Sessions 11/4, 11/25, and 12/2)
Where: Google Classroom
Host: Rev Gordon
Registration Required: Join Today!
Curious about Unitarian Universalism or looking to deepen your connection to our faith tradition? Becoming UU is a four-session workshop designed to introduce participants to the rich history of Unitarian Universalism, explore the values and theology that shape who we are today, and imagine the future we’re working to build together. Whether you’re new to UU or a long-time member seeking renewal, this series offers space for reflection, connection, and spiritual growth.
Growing Forward in Gratitude
In this season of giving thanks, we send our deepest gratitude to each of you, our members, leaders, volunteers, congregants, and collaborative community partners, whose dedication across diverse roles, often wearing many hats simultaneously, is vital to our shared spiritual home. Your invaluable contributions weave the fabric of our community and embody the fullness of our collective spirit. Together, we build bridges of kindness, sharing, and love. Thank you for being part of this sacred journey.
In faith and service,
Denard
Denard Blackwood
LifeSpan Learning Coordinator
Bridges: A Unitarian Universalist Network
Phone (720-336-8323
For more information and access to other events, sign our Guestbook!