Our Whole Lives (OWL): Lifespan Sexuality Education provides honest, accurate information about how sexuality changes lives. It dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision making, and has the potential to save lives. Unlike many other sexuality curricula currently available, this program is comprehensive and progressive. In an inclusive and developmentally appropriate manner, it addresses sensitive topics that are typically excluded. Although the curriculum was developed by the Unitarian Universalist Association and the United Church of Christ, this curriculum is completely secular and free of specific religious doctrine or reference. However, the underlying values of the program reflect the justice-oriented traditions of both denominations.  

There are seven distinct OWL programs for different ages along the life span: grades K-1, grades 4-6, grades 7-9, grades 10-12, young adults (ages 18-35), adults, and older adults (ages 55 +). Our congregation is proud to offer OWL regularly for a rotating age group. 

This year (2025-2026) we will be running OWL for a 7th – 9th grade cohort.  This program is entirely secular, and is open to any age-eligible youth on the North Shore that would like to participate. This version of OWL models and teaches caring, compassion, respect, and justice through the lens of sexual education. It is a holistic program that moves beyond the intellect to address the attitudes, values, and feelings that youth have about themselves and the world.  

If you have a 7th, 8th or 9th grader who might be interested in participating, please email faithdevelopment@firstparishbeverly.org!  More information will be available soon.

If you would like to learn more about OWL in general, click here.