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As the Our Whole Lives (OWL) program marks its 25th anniversary, the General Synod has strongly endorsed its mission of providing faith-based comprehensive sexuality education. This initiative is a collaboration with the Unitarian Universalist Association.
The resolution titled “Faithful Stewardship of Our Whole Lives and Advocacy for Comprehensive Sexuality Education in Faith Communities Through Interfaith Collaboration” received overwhelming support with 625 votes in favor, 11 against, and 13 abstentions. It emphasizes that "doing God’s work in the world includes providing life-affirming lifespan sexuality education that is developmentally appropriate and scientifically accurate."
Ellie Smith, an 18-year-old delegate from the Rocky Mountain Conference, expressed her surprise at meeting other youth unfamiliar with OWL. Having participated in OWL programs during junior high and high school, she highlighted the importance of educating youth about their bodies and bodily autonomy amid current challenges to women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights.
Rev. Roberto Ochoa from Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota Conference spoke on how OWL serves as a vital resource for small-town and rural churches. Numerous stories were shared by parents, young people, faith formation leaders, and youth directors illustrating how OWL has positively impacted their lives.
Committee Chair Debra Joseph noted various reasons to celebrate OWL's work through this resolution including its long-standing presence, diverse applicability across different communities of faith, and continued availability of trainings.
The committee amended the original proposal to allow multiple observance options throughout May rather than a single annual observance on the first Sunday of May.
Following the resolution's passage, Rev. Amy Johnson from UCC Minister for Sexuality Education and Justice along with Melanie Davis from Unitarian Universalist Association celebrated 25 years of partnership on OWL. Johnson emphasized breaking silences around shame and stigma while Davis reiterated their commitment to promoting self-worth and dignity.
Celebrations at General Synod included Owlivia the Owl becoming an unofficial mascot alongside storytelling events recognizing contributions by various churches as training sites for OWL.
Davis concluded by highlighting that “the UCC and UUA partnership makes possible values-based sexuality education that is unrivaled for its depth.”
