Announcing the Mountain Desert District online classes for lay leaders! The purpose of these online classes is to help with the issues that arise in congregational life, providing resources and tools for leaders without requiring extensive travel and expense. They are open to all and are specifically targeted to lay leaders, board members, new DRE's, and student ministers. They will be offered as a live call-in class or as an MP3 recording, after the class. These classes are designed to be inexpensive ($15) and friendly. They only require a computer with internet access and a telephone. Beginners are welcome!

The first series pertains to Religious Education in congregational life.
Here are the 4 hot topics in Religious Education that congregations struggle with:

• Mon. 2/6/12, 7-8:15 p.m. (MT) MultiGen: Multigenerational worship and leadership.
• Mon. 2/13/12 , 7-8:15 p.m. (MT) U.U. Identity: Narrow the focus to broaden the understanding.
• Mon. 2/27/12, 7-8:15 p.m. (MT) Preventing Abuse: On being an alert and compassionate community.
• Mon. 3/5/12 , 7-8:15 p.m. (MT) Youth Program: Deepening ties to the congregation.

These online classes will be taught by Katie Covey, adjunct professor at ILIFF Seminary in Denver, CO in Religious Education and a Director of Religious Education for over 25 years. She notes, "These were the hottest topics in my class for student ministers and in the New Mexico Lay Leadership Symposium on Religious Education. They are 4 of the most crucial issues in creating vital congregations. I hope you will join me to reflect on how to create a life-changing community of Unitarian Universalists."

Visit the Mountain Desert District online classes webpage for more information! In addition to Religious Educators, these classes are pertinent to Board Members and congregational leaders. Congregational leaders can gain quick knowledge about these topics,crucial for guiding and developing congregational life.