Susan began her career as a religious educator at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Shelter Rock in New York.  As is true for many of our families, she came to Unitarian Universalism when her children needed a faith community.  Searching for meaning and community in their lives, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock and its rich resources became such a place and there began her current career path.

     Our Director of Religious Education has received certification in the Unitarian Universalist Association’s Renaissance module program, is a trained facilitator for two of the Renaissance modules, served as president of the Metro District chapter of the Liberal Religious Educators Association (LREDA), currently serves as liaison from LREDA on the executive committee of the Unitarian Universalist Association’s Annual Program Fund, works as teacher and curriculum writer for  the J Paul Taylor sexuality education and parenting program and is a trainer for the Our Whole Lives sexuality curriculum through  Planned Parenthood.  Susan attends the Star Island conference for Religious Education annually as well as the LREDA annual fall conference as part of her commitment to continuing education opportunities. 

     Her philosophy of religious education is simple, provide the tools our children and youth need to help nurture their spiritual, emotional and humanistic growth.  We provide opportunities for worship, learning life skills, fun and friendship. Our children and youth need to know the stories of our ancestors and so Unitarian Universalist identity, Jewish-Christian myths, Native American stories and knowledge of the world’s major religions are all important pieces in the life of our program. The Our Whole Lives program is regularly scheduled for our children in age appropriate sessions for five- seven year olds, nine-eleven year olds, junior and senior high age.  Above all Susan believes that our children and youth need to feel safe, cared for, honored and celebrated and works to help make this happen.

     Having served both large and mid-sized congregations in the northeast, Susan brings her knowledge of policies and procedures to congregational life.  She loves to sing, tell stories and be in relationship with the children, youth and adults of this community.  She considers herself much blessed to do this work and appreciates the beauty found within the hearts of the members of this community.

For greater detail on Susan’s education and experience, visit www.freundethal.net and click on Susan Ryan Freudenthal.