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Journey from Visitor to New MemberWe 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 our facilities. Members accept the right and the responsibility to participate in making these decisions, to take on the financial burdens, and to support with energy the good works of the church. Becoming a MemberWhether you are new to Unitarian Universalism or grew up in the faith, the decision to become a member of a 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 ClassesBecoming part of a church community can feel uncertain and awkward. The Pathway to Membership class is designed to bring visitors and guests into our congregation and reduce the feeling of being new as they become members 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 our own congregation The integration of new and interested friends includes a discussion focusing on the liberal church, an opportunity to share personal religious odysseys, to learn about the history of our religious movement and to get information about our own church and feel included. This class also provides attendees a small group of people they already know. In addition, to be an asset to the church community, new members need 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 also 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 on this link. New Member Recognition SundayParticipate 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 MembershipAttend church regularly Regular Sunday attendance will help you feel connected to the spiritual heart of the church Serve the church Use your gifts and interest 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, 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 Although the church provides opportunities for social action, many places exist in each of out lives where such acts can take place. Acts of caring are an essential part of belonging to a faith community.
YOU ARE WELCOME HERE
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