Frequently Asked Questions
What are your services like?
We gather to explore world religions, spirituality, social justice, current events and personal development. Often, after he speaks, our minister invites people to respond with ideas of their own. Our music is as diverse as our theology. In addition to congregational hymns, we hear and enjoy classical, folk, show tunes, and rock ’n’ roll. People have an opportunity to share joys and concerns during Sunday services and to continue fellowship during a coffee hour afterward.
How else does the Fellowship nurture a sense of community?
We honor the inherent worth and dignity of each person while encouraging all to discover how we are connected through the interdependent web of existence. A number of us join committees, sing in the choir, and take food to those who are sick or grieving. Beyond our doors, we engage together in a variety of social-action projects to strengthen our larger community. We also hold regular potlucks and throw parties on special occasions.
What do I wear to your services?
People tend to dress casually, but you can dress up if you want to.
Does the Fellowship have a nursery?
Yes, a nursery is available during Sunday morning services.
Do you have a “Sunday School” program for children?
Yes. Children and youth from preschool age through 9th grade attend religious education (RE) classes that meet at the same time as our Sunday morning service. We help children discover the history of Unitarian Universalism, learn about other faith traditions, and engage in community service. We teach them to respect themselves, other cultures, and the earth. We also have a Youth Group for Sr. High students, which meets several times a month in the evenings.
What is Sunday Forum?
If you enjoy freewheeling debate on a wide range of subjects, such as current events, environmental topics, book reviews, and poetry, you will probably enjoy our weekly forum, which meets before the Sunday services. Visit and search for truth and meaning within this lively gathering.
What is Unitarian Universalism theology?
Classical Unitarianism argued from scripture (Luke 24:19, Acts 2:22) that Jesus was a prophet of God and not part of a trinity. Classical Universalism also argued from scripture that all people are saved (I Corinthians 15:22, Ephesians 1:9-10). Modern Unitarian Universalism considers many world religions and secular philosophies as sources of truth. We believe in religious freedom, and our community encourages people to explore their individual spiritual paths.
Do Unitarian Universalists believe in God?
Some do and some do not. We are more concerned that a person's beliefs result in caring for other human beings and the earth.
What do Unitarian Universalists believe about heaven and hell?
Some believe in heaven. Few probably believe in hell except for the hell that people create for themselves. Some UUs believe in reincarnation, and some believe there is no afterlife.
Do Unitarian Universalists pray?
Some of us pray; others meditate or just think things through.
What relation does Unitarian Universalism have to Christianity?
We have expanded upon our Christian heritage to embrace positive aspects of many world religions and philosophies. Some UUs identify themselves as Christian; others are Jewish, Buddhist, humanist, earth-centered, agnostic, or atheist.
Is Unitarian Universalism a real religion?
It is not, if you believe religion is about dividing people between the saved and unsaved. However, if you believe that religion should seek to unite humanity rather than divide it, we might be more real than other religions. Some people think that we seem too good to be true.
Is Unitarian Universalism a cult?
No. The Universalist Church was founded in 1793, on the premise that God's love was strong enough to save all people. The Unitarian Association was founded in 1825, based on the belief that God is one. The two denominations merged in 1961. We are not affiliated with the Rev. Sun Yung Moon of the Unification Church.
How do Unitarian Universalist ministers prepare for their profession?
Typically, UU ministers earn a master's degree in divinity and work with the denomination's Ministerial Fellowship Committee to prepare to serve our congregations.
Can Unitarian Universalist ministers perform marriage ceremonies?
UU ministers are legally certified to officiate at weddings. In addition to traditional marriages, we perform ceremonies that other religions forbid. If you are divorced, gay, or lesbian, or if you and your partner are of different faiths, your love will be honored and respected by Unitarian Universalists.
What is the "official" coffee of Unitarian Universalism?
We value freedom of choice in this and other matters. That said, the UUFWS serves only Fair Trade coffee on Sunday mornings.