Journey from Guest to New Member

We are a Unitarian Universalist congregation, which means, among other things: we govern ourselves, own our land and buildings, and make all the choices about our educational programs, ministerial staff, and facilities. Members gain the privilege and accept the responsibility of participating in these decisions, contributing resources of both money and time to sustain our congregation, and supporting with energy the work of the church.

Church Membership

Whether you are new to Unitarian Universalism or grew up in the faith, the decision to become a member of our church is an important one. Becoming a member enables you to participate in congregational decisions and express a personal commitment to share your talents, resources, and energy with others in the congregation.

While membership is not required to participate in all aspects of church life, attending events and classes, serving on committees, it is encouraged. Only members may vote on matters that come before the congregation.

Pathway to Membership Classes

The Pathway to Membership class is designed to bring visitors and guests into our congregation and reduce your feeling of being new as you become a member of the congregation. It is designed to enable folks to become actively and meaningfully involved in the life of the church and congregation. You will meet many wonderful and interesting people. You will learn about our community and meet our minister, as well as some of our church leaders. If you are not a new UU or if you have been a member of another UU congregation, we encourage you to consider attending Pathway for fellowship and for an introduction to this particular congregation

This class includes a discussion focusing on the liberal church and an opportunity to share personal religious odysseys  You will learn about the history of our religious movement and get information about our church. This class also provides attendees a small group of people they already know. In addition, class participants are given the opportunity to think through their own needs, responsibilities, and commitments to the church. The vitality of our church congregation depends on contributions of time and treasure.

You can read more about church membership in the pamphlet Becoming a Member found at the Guest Table just inside the double doors to the church, or by clicking here.

New Member Recognition Sunday

Once you have made the decision to join the church, you will be asked to participate in the New Member Recognition ceremony where you will be officially welcomed into the church and introduced along with other new members. You will sign the membership book during the Sunday service at which the new members and the congregation pledge to support each other.

Responsibilities of Membership

Attend church regularly

Regular Sunday attendance will help you feel connected to the spiritual heart of the church

Serve the church

Use your gifts and interests to serve. The church needs hands as well as hearts and minds. Join in the work of the church, such as greeting visitors, serving coffee, joining a task group or committee,or teaching a class for children or adults

Participate

Find a small group that feeds your soul.

Pledge

The financial support of our church comes primarily from the generosity of our members. Our congregation pays directly for staff salaries and benefits, building maintenance, and program expenses. Know that you are welcome here, whatever you are able to give.

Serve Others

The church provides many opportunities to care for each other, as well as opportunities to serve the community.  Acts of caring are an essential part of belonging to a faith community.