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RIGHT FROM THE START: |
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A STARTUP PROCESS FOR RELIGIOUS EDUCATORS |
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| WHAT? |
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| This startup process is designed to assist the Religious
Educator who is new to a congregation, his or her colleagues and lay
leaders, and congregants to get to know one another better at the start of
their relationship. This is done through an exploration of the
congregation's history, its current functioning and "culture", and mutual
hopes for the future. Through this process of sharing and
familiarization, a set of goals and action steps can be identified to
guide all parties through the initial period of adjustment. |
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| WHY? |
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| The clarification of expectations, goals, and ways of
relating at the beginning helps to establish a stable and healthy
environment in which the RE Professional can grow and flourish. An
effective startup process sets the stage for an RE Covenanting Process to
be facilitated after the first year of service. |
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| WHO? |
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| It is vital that the Parish Minister, other church staff,
RE Committee, and Board or Council leaders attend the entire startup
process. In addition, it is important to have broad representation
of RE parents, youth, and congregation members present as possible. |
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| WHEN AND WHERE? |
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| As soon as the Religious Educator accepts the position, a
date for the startup process can be chosen in consultation with the
district staff or facilitator who will be conducting the process.
Plan at least two months in advance for a daylong startup workshop, to be
held in a suitable meeting space, with refreshments and a light meal
provided. Modified time frames and content can be negotiated with the
facilitator, depending on the unique needs of the congregation and
professional staff. Arrange for child care to enable parents to attend.
Ample advance publicity and personal invitations help build interest and
encourage better attendance. A small committee of people can be
recruited to plan and organize the event, coordinating the details with
the Religious Educator, other congregation leaders, and the outside
facilitator. |
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| To schedule the Off to the Right Start
workshop for your congregation, contact: Andrea Lerner, District Executive,
Email -
 or call 914-373-0193. |
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