I know that many of us are missing the usual array of classes that engage us, allow us to share ideas, spend time together and build community.

In our Shared Governance Model, Adult Programming is part of the Growth and Learning Council. Religious Education, AHA, and the Library are also part of this Council. Frank Layden is Chair of this Council and Beau Olgren is the staff liaison. The Growth and Learning Council is one of 5 Councils that meet on a regular basis. The Chairs of each Council and the Minister form the Program Council. Each of the Teams within a Council create a Charter, develop a mission and goals that are related to the mission of QUUF. This Shared Governance Model, that we are now using, depends on the involvement of lay leadership and uses collaborative decision making.

For the last few months a small team, originating in the Growth and Learning Council, has been meeting to plan a conversation about adult growth and learning at QUUF. After the meetings – one online and one in person to be held in January – the team will create the policy that will guide the new program.

Some questions we hope to consider include:
– What is the purpose of adult growth and learning in our congregation?
– Who does the program serve?
– What kinds of criteria do program proposals need to meet?
– What topics and areas of inquiry support the mission of QUUF?
– How does care for each other enter into our planning?

Keep an eye out for the announcement of dates and reflect on what you can bring to the conversation!