As spiritual explorers, UUs thirst for new information, new ideas, new ways to make sense of our world and its mysteries.  The Adult Enrichment Committee at UUCR responds to that thirst by providing opportunities to connect with others as we explore, engage, and grow in our spirituality. Our program offerings include a range of learning opportunities, spiritual practices, and small groups for spiritual deepening and personal support.

The Adult Enrichment (AE) program is aligned with UUA’s Tapestry of Faith, which identifies these four keystone elements of faith development: Ethical Development, Spiritual Development, UU Identity, Faith Development. You will find opportunities to explore all four strands at UUCR. 

Ongoing and Upcoming Programs

Science Sundays. 2nd Sundays, 11:30 am – 12:30 pm; Sanctuary & Online. On the second Sunday of each month following the service and coffee, a talk is given on a science subject of interest to Unitarian Unitarians. These talks are delivered at a popular level. All are welcome. Recordings of most talks in this series are available later on the UU Reston YouTube channel. You can also attend on Zoom using the worship service link or staying on after the service.

Beyond Eve: A Class on Old Testament Women. Sundays, September 21 through October 26, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm; Classroom downstairs. There is often little focus on the women in the Old Testament – but they were major actors, not just spouses of the main characters. We will explore these “missing women” and their contribution to the rich Old Testament picture. From Lilith (know her?) to Bathsheba and beyond. Join us after church beginning September 21. If you have questions, contact Julia Norrgard.

Introduction to World Religions. Tuesday, November 18, 7:00-9:00 pm; Online. Join Rev. Aileen for a preliminary introduction to world religions, focusing on information and skills to help gain understanding and build connection with people from different religious backgrounds. This class will serve as a foundation for further exploration of specific religions and visits to houses of worship and faith communities in 2026. Please RSVP to Rev. Aileen Fitzke to receive the Zoom link.

SACReD Journey: Reproductive Justice. Saturdays, 1:00-4:30pm, January 10 through January 31. Are you involved in Reproductive Justice, considering actions you might take, or just want to learn more? Join with others at UUCR to deepen your understanding of Reproductive Justice, engage with the theological approaches to Reproductive Justice, and learn practices of healing that strengthen our community organizing. Contact Rev. Aileen Fitzke or Linda Weaver for details. Registration will be requested.

SMALL GROUP MINISTRIES

 Caregivers Support Group (Zoom). 1st Saturday of each Month, September through June; 10:00 – 11:30 am. This support group, for caregivers of all kinds, is facilitated by Helen Hipps. Come share your stories, struggles, and coping techniques. New members and drop-ins are welcome. Please contact Helen Hipps to learn more and register.

Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers. 1st Sundays, 11:15 am – 12:15 pm. We know adults caring for children and teens today need support, time with adults, and time without a to do list. The group will determine how they spend their time together. This is likely to be a combination of exploring UUCR’s monthly themes, supporting one another, and having fun together. Contact Linda Weaver with questions or to request childcare. Drop-ins are welcome.

Spiritual Autobiography Reading Group. 4th Saturdays; 10:00 – 11:30 am; Board Room and Zoom. In this group we share our reactions to books chosen by the participants and reflect on what we might learn for our own spiritual journeys. Contact Denise Kirwan with questions and to sign up. This is a hybrid event.

FOR MORE SMALL GROUPS AND MORE WAYS TO CONNECT go to CONNECT.

Important Enrichment Notes

Programs are held throughout the year; most programs are free.  Scholarships may be available for any fee-based programs by contacting our office.  

Interested in leading a group or teaching a class? Contact the Adult Enrichment Committee!

For more information on adult education at UUCR, please contact the Adult Enrichment Committee.