Becoming a Member

Becoming a member of First Universalist Church is a way of belonging in this community and participating in the religious tradition of Unitarian Universalism. Membership has spiritual dimensions. This does not mean that it requires us to profess our beliefs in order to be welcomed into this circle of love. Rather, membership asks us to choose a spiritual path and walk it with courage and care. We do this by making a commitment to the principles and purposes of this church and a covenant with this community of faith.

From Visitor to Member

  • Attend a What We’re About class.
  • Attend Sunday services at 9:00 or 11:00 a.m.
  • Attend a Pathways to Membership class.
  • Fill out a Membership Application.
  • Fill out a Stewardship Pledge Card or Pledge Online.
  • Participate in the New Member Welcome Ceremony and reception.
  • Sign the Membership Book, receive a name badge and Membership Certificate.
  • Attend Foundations of Our Faith - monthly classes that deepen your understanding and experience of this church and our religion.

Privileges of Membership

  • Participate and vote on congregational issues
  • Vote on calling ministers
  • Vote on special resolutions
  • Serve as a committee chair, officer of the church, or member of the Board of Trustees
  • Use the church for weddings and celebrations
  • Use the church for memorial services

Responsibilities of Membership

  • Commit to the principles and purposes of First Universalist Church
  • Attend Sunday services regularly
  • Participate in the democratic governance of the congregation
  • Make an annual recordable financial pledge contribution
  • Volunteer your gifts to the church

Membership is open to anyone, fourteen years or older, who has made written application using the Membership Application, commits to the principles and purposes of the church, makes an annual recordable financial pledge contribution, and pledges volunteer service to the church. Membership is an individual choice; it does not cover other adult members of one’s immediate family.

Applications are affirmed monthly by the Board of Trustees. Members who cease to make an annual recordable financial contribution to the church will be removed from membership. A member may resign by sending a written resignation request to the office.

Download a copy of the Membership Application.

New Member Welcome Ceremony

An official ceremony is performed during a Sunday service several times during the year. New members sign the Membership Book, introduce themselves and their families, receive an official name tag and membership certificate, and are welcomed into the congregation. Participation is highly encouraged but not required.
New Member Family Potlucks

Classes

What We're About

A brief overview of what Unitarian Universalists believe and what makes us different from other denominations, this session is especially for first-time visitors and newcomers. The class is held the first and third Sunday of every month following each service. No sign up is necessary.

Pathways to Membership

This is a class for those new to Unitarian Universalism, and a requirement for those who wish to become members. Led by Heidi Mastrud, Director of Congregational Life, participants learn about Unitarian Universalism and First Universalist Church’s history, share personal spiritual journeys, and discuss ways to become engaged in the life of the church. This class is offered several times a year. Register by emailing or calling Sandy in the church office. Next classes: April 6 and 13 from 7-9 p.m. OR May 1 from 9-1.

Foundations of Our Faith

New members meet monthly for lunch and discussion with a facilitator to deepen their understanding of Unitarian Universalism and their own spirituality. Participants are encouraged to attend for one year from the date of becoming a member. The classes include topics such as: Principles, Purposes, Sources; What is Spirituality for UU’s? UU History; and Ask the Ministers.