As September approaches, a fresh rhythm begins to settle in, and with it comes an adventure I’ve been anticipating all summer: stepping into the classroom to help lead and teach Children’s Sunday Circles and Sunday school at the First Unitarian Church of Dallas.
There is a unique magic in a Unitarian Universalist learning space. Unlike traditional religious education that focuses on handing down rigid dogmas or rote memorization, our Sunday Circles are designed to be sanctuaries of wonder, curiosity, and authentic connection. We don’t teach kids what to think; we give them the tools, space, and encouragement to discover how they think, feel, and relate to the broader world.
What excites me most is the opportunity to nurture a genuine sense of belonging. The world moves at a relentless pace, often putting immense pressure on children to perform or conform. On Sunday mornings, however, our circle is a place to pause. It’s an environment grounded in kindness, equity, and the celebration of diverse perspectives. Through stories, creative projects, and heartfelt circle discussions, we get to explore big questions together: What does it mean to be a good friend? How do we care for the earth? How do we stand up for justice in our own communities?
The truth is, teaching is always a two-way street. Children possess an unfiltered honesty and intuitive wisdom that routinely turns the lesson back on the adult in the room. I know that for every story I share about empathy or justice, I will be reminded tenfold by the kids of how to approach the world with pure imagination and unbridled joy.
Stepping into our vibrant First Unitarian Dallas community this fall feels less like a teaching assignment and more like an invitation to cultivate hope alongside the next generation. I can’t wait to gather on the rug, light the chalice, listen closely, and watch these bright minds and open hearts flourish.