What you Might Want to Know Before your First Visit

What should my children and I wear to this church?

Dress is casual.

Is there childcare and Sunday School during church?

YES, Greeters in our Entryway can direct you to our Religious Education classrooms before services begin. You might want to arrive a few minutes early to help your children get settled in.

If my child doesn't separate well, can she or he stay with me in the service?

Absolutely.

Are there any people of color in this congregation?

We are predominantly European-American. We do have Hispanic, Asian and African-American members. ALL ARE WELCOME.

Are people of any ethnic background welcome in this congregation?

YES! Our church welcomes all, regardless of age, ethnicity or affectional orientation.

Are there people in the congregation who have beliefs similar to the major world religions?

We are a liberal non-creedal faith, with our members believing in a diverse array of spiritual tenets, including, but not limited to, Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, Humanism, and Paganism.

What goes on during the worship services?

Our worship service starts at 10:30 a.m. promptly and lasts approximately one hour. Generally, we have songs, readings and a sermon as well as a time where attendees can share their joys and sorrows with others in the congregation. There are often special words for the children from the minister. The children then leave for age-appropriate activities. After the services there is a coffee hour‚ where coffee and small snacks are served. This is a great time to get to meet people.

What is a "lay led" service?

Our Sunday services are the joint responsibility of our minister and a committee of members who choose the topics, presenters, music and other elements. The usual format (readings, Hymns, Sermon, Covenant, etc.) is followed about three quarters of the time, but you might visit on a Sunday when a lively debate or a theater piece, a musical presentation or a participatory event fills the 10:30-11:30 time shot. We do delight in diversity!


How do I join the congregation?

If, after you have attended several times, you think this a place where your values can be realized, think carefully about whether you wish to abide by the covenant which defines our relationship with one another and is recited every Sunday. "...to dwell together in peace, to seek the truth in love and to help one another." If you're willing to subscribe to that covenant and contribute to the ongoing life of the congregation, then arrange to see the minister or president who will answer any questions and may invite you to sign the membership book. There is no creedal test for membership. Our "principles and purposes" are an indication of 'things generally believed among us' and no more. It is the nature of our way of being religious that MANY opinions will be held on religious and other matters.


What is expected of members?

To abide by the covenant and to contribute to the ongoing life of the congregation. We ask each member to make an annual financial "pledge" proportional to his or her disposable income, but it is up to each member to determine the percentage and amount. The purpose of the pledge is to enable us to budget/plan ahead. It is NOT a condition of membership. We also ask each member to donate time and talents. That can range all the way from serving occasionally as an usher or greeter to accepting a major ongoing committee responsibility.


Is the church building handicapped accessible.

YES.

What if I'm not ready to join just yet?

Nearly all our events are open to the public; but if you would like to be listed in our directory as a 'Friend,' receive our monthly newsletter and periodic emails, we ask that you help us cover costs by making an identifiable contribution of at least $52 a year. Some of the Friends of UUCP also pledge each year and this is very much appreciated.