Nathan Pawelek, Director of Religious Education at All Souls Unitarian Universalist Congregation in New London, CT has been selected as one of three winners of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee's Bright Light Challenge.  The Challenge encourages religious educators to explore and teach the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and its enduring relevance to the international movement for human rights, in their congregations and communities.  Nathan was interested in how one maintains a sense of dignity and self-worth as one ages and whether engagement with youth could help.

"I propose(d) a project where youth teach elderly.  The subject would be a writing short-course.  The youth gain practical leadership and teaching skills, self-confidence, and unexpected friendships, while also participating in the cultural life of a community," explains Nathan.  "The elderly gain validation and spiritual wholeness by being reminded of those experiences that defined an identity of a younger age.  They may well see themselves in their youth teachers, creating a reinvigorated enthusiasm that naturally occurs when spending time under the spell of youthful energy.  Writing about memories is a powerful tool to achieve a symbiotic relationship between old and young."

As a winner, Nate will receive a $500 scholarship to be used toward the cost of any UUSC or LREDA sponsored activity or event.  Congratulations, Nathan!