The animals of Florida and the world have reason to be grateful to the children of BBUUC’s Religious Education program.  This summer our children took specific, concrete action to be part of the solution for animals.  

Beginning in July, they gathered signatures in support of making the Right to Clean and Healthy Waters a part of Florida’s Constitution.  They promoted the petition through the summer, especially during Shark Week, because the proposed amendment would guarantee sharks and other water animals a safe and healthy home.   If the amendment is ultimately approved, it will allow Florida residents, non-governmental bodies, and government entities to sue in order to protect Florida’s waters.  If 891,589 signatures are gathered by February 1, 2024, the measure can be certified to appear on the ballot for the November, 2024 general election.  If you have not yet signed the petition, you can do so here.  https://www.floridarighttocleanwater.org  Thanks to children’s RE for doing their part!  

The children of BBUUC also helped animals in local shelters.  On August 13, the topic for Spirit Seekers (ages 6+) was the plight of homeless animals and what we can do to help.  The class welcomed BBUUC’s Animal Chaplain, Elizabeth DeCoux, for a discussion of the difficulties faced by homeless animals and ways to assist them.  The class included a meditation enabling the children to empathize with homeless animals.  The session concluded with the children making wonderful goodie bags for the dogs currently housed at Jacksonville Humane Society—yummy bones and treats which the dogs have no doubt already enjoyed.  

Hurrah to children’s RE for honoring our Seventh Principle by participating in the solution for animals, who are part of the interdependent web!