UUSD introduces Amber Peterson, director of lifespan faith development
The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware in Lewes held a special covenant ceremony March 15 for Amber Peterson, their new director of lifespan faith development. Peterson has been called to minister to the congregation’s intergenerational religious education. With special words and music, Peterson was welcomed into this important role by the children and the congregation.
Underscoring UUSD’s commitment to lifelong religious and spiritual growth, the Rev. D. Michael Smith, the congregation’s minister, said, “Children are our future, and adult religious education is important to the ongoing strength and support of our free religious faith.”
Deanna Duby, president of the congregation’s board of trustees, added that UUSD’s religious educational programs are expected to continue to grow and thrive under Peterson’s leadership, especially after the congregation moves into its spacious newly constructed church home nearby on Route 9 this summer.
Peterson has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Salisbury State University and previously served as the education coordinator for the Cape May County Zoo where she was responsible for creating informative and engaging educational programs for schools, zoo camp and visitors. With two small children enrolled in UUSD’s religious education program, Peterson has been actively involved in its development over the past few years. She has also served as a leader of the lifespan faith development committee where she worked closely with staff and parents in providing a religious education experience for the congregation’s growing program.
“Our religious education programs cover the lifespan from infant to adult,” says Peterson. “We cherish our wonderful community and work daily to live by our Unitarian Universalist principles, whether they accompany other religious beliefs or not,” she adds. “I look forward to working with our team of lay volunteers and parents to advance religious education for all ages at UUSD.” For more information about UUSD, go to www.uussd.org.
