RE Coordinator Aileen Habal!
My name is Aileen Habal and I am a graduate of a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. Currently, I am employed as a Purchasing Admin. Assistant to an Internet Cable Manufacturing Company. I like watching movies and series on Netflix and listening to music and audiobooks, and I enjoy gazing into the clouds in the sky, which makes me feel calm and relaxed. My husband and I enjoy traveling and exploring new places. And having the opportunity to work with children can be a rewarding experience that brings both personal enjoyment and the opportunity to contribute to their development.
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Religious Exploration for Children
Religious Exploration, RE for short, is UUCTs Children Religious Education program. Our committee and team are dedicated to finding the best ways to educate and meet the needs of our children and families. Families who are interested in having their children participate in our program are asked to complete the RE Registration form and returning it to Aileen Habel our RE Coordinator, Judy Lane our RE Chairperson or scanning and email it to us at re@uutampa.org.
1st Sunday in Service RE
RE is excited to announce that on the 1st Sunday of the month we will have an area in the sanctuary dedicated to our children. This change will give families with children of all ages the opportunity to worship together.
RE for Children and Youth
For Sundays other than the 1st Sunday, RE will be providing childcare and weekly sessions. We are calling this One Room RE. On these Sundays we will be welcoming children over 3 years of age and are potty trained. These sessions will be held in the multi-purpose building starting at 10:30 am. Parents are welcome to hang out as well, especially if your child is shy or new to UUCT.
Wiggle Room (Right next to the Minister’s Office)
The Wiggle Room is a welcoming space for restless babies and toddlers that gives their caregivers a place to still be able to hear the service. It is stocked with toys, rocking chairs, and a changing table. Families with children up to 4 years old are welcome to visit the Wiggle Room. It is currently unstaffed, but we hope to increase our volunteer pool so that we can extend our childcare.
Soulful Home: If you can’t make it to a live RE session (or even if you can) you may want to engage with the monthly theme by accessing a packet of materials at home. The packets include stories, games, discussion topics, action invitations, craft ideas, and links for further family exploration.
Volunteers Opportunities: We are actively recruiting volunteers that have been known by the RE Coordinator, congregation, and/or minister for a minimum of 6 months, pass a background check and enjoy sharing the time and talents with children. If you meet these requirements and can spare a couple of hours on Sunday, let us hear from you.
For questions and more information, contact the RE Committee: re@uutampa.org
The Role of Parents and Caretakers
Arrive on time and come to church regularly. Children develop a sense of belonging by attending regularly. They get to know their peers and we get to know them if they are here often. Follow the activities of your child’s class. Talk to your child about what is happening in class. Talk to the RE Coordinator and teachers. Talk to your child about things that matter. You are their primary religious educator. Tell your children about your beliefs and what you value. Be a good listener to your children. Let them know that their ideas and thoughts are of interest to you. Participate in intergenerational activities. Spending time with members of the congregation at dances, dinners, and gatherings other than Sunday Services helps strengthen our UU community. Share your time and ideas. Our program needs the energy and creativity of many people in order to be a success.
