At CVUU, we have more than one way of experiencing the world and understanding the sacred. No matter who you are, where you are on your spiritual journey, or whom you love, you are truly welcome here. In this church home, we practice radical hospitality. We welcome the individual” and offer all our visitors and members a place to be seen and valued.

FAQs

Q: What do Unitarian Universalists believe?

A: Our Unitarian Universalist traditions are rooted in the Protestant Reformation, but we are the heretical root of that very large tree. The early Unitarians denied the doctrine of the Trinity as being unbiblical. The early Universalists believed that God was so encompassing that all of creation would be reconciled to God at the end of time. Today, we emphasize the unity of life and the connections between the great religions of the world and the wisdom they offer us.

To learn more about Unitarian Universalist beliefs, visit these sources:

• Unitarian Universalist Association
• Take a quiz to find out if you might be a Unitarian Universalist.
• View We Are Unitarian Universalists, a video from the UUA.

Q: “What will happen when I attend for the first time?”

A: “As our guest, we will not embarrass you, have you stand up, or ask you to give money. We know that many people want to check out the church. You will be greeted as you enter the door and be directed to the Welcome Table in our foyer, where you can (as you are comfortable) complete a name tag, pick up a visitor card (so we can connect with you again), and find out about our newcomer opportunities. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and see if this church is for you. Following our service, we invite you to join us in our social hall, where we gather for fellowship and where there are many opportunities for discussion and making friends. Feel free to speak with our Welcome Table host if you would like a tour of our building or if you would like to ask questions and get help making connections.

This house is a house of freedom, built and sustained by the gifts of those who come to receive what they need and give what they can. This house is your house; may it always be worthy of the gifts you give it.

Q: Is everyone welcome here?

A: At our Sunday services and other congregational activities, we welcome and honor you, whoever you are. As a family that respects and promotes diversity, we believe that expressing individual thoughts and lifestyles is foundational to our core values. In effect, we go “beyond categorical thinking.” For us, it is not about how you look, what you wear, how educated you are, what you do for a living, who you love, or what your resume might say about you – it is about you as the distinct individual you are. We only ask that you honor our principles of love, freedom, equality, and justice for all who share life with you on this planet. The UUA officially recognizes CVUU as a Welcoming Congregation. We are a Welcoming Congregation recognized by the Unitarian Universalist Association. This means we affirm and include people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer at every level of congregational life—in worship, in programs, and on social occasions—welcoming them as whole people.

Q: Is there childcare/Sunday School during the service?

A: We have programming for all ages, and it is before the Sunday service at 10 AM. Yes, we have childcare if parents do not want to keep their young children in the worship service, but otherwise children are included in the worship service. Visitors are welcome. Volunteers conduct all religious educational activities that foster the courageous spiritual growth of our congregation, especially those held in a classroom setting. Our Minister of Lifespan Faith Development organizes and oversees programs for children, youth, and adults.

Q: If my child does not separate well from me, may they remain with me during the service?

A: Children are welcome to stay with their families during the service. If your family needs more wiggle room, you may sit in the foyer at the rear of the sanctuary, where parents can hear the service while younger children can move around and play.

Q: What do people wear?

A: Most congregants dress casually, although it is not uncommon to see sports jackets and dresses. Summertime brings out shorts and sandals. Our children wear a variety of styles, from dresses to jeans—no need to dress up to fit in. Most of us prefer comfort to style!

Q: What is the service like?

A: Each service runs for about an hour and typically includes readings, music, a sermon, and singing.

Our minister is typically in the pulpit all but one Sunday per month, from September through June. When the minister is not speaking, a guest speaker or congregation member offers a sermon. Occasionally, we have a multigenerational service in which the children participate alongside the adults. You can find out what is happening on any given Sunday by looking at the list of Upcoming Services.

The sermon is recorded, and a video is posted on our YouTube channel here. Due to permissions, sermons may take a few days to appear online.

Q: What is the process for becoming a member?

A: We offer a Pathways to Membership class. The two-hour class is free, includes lunch, and is offered several times a year. Our Membership Team runs the class and will cover who we are and what we do. If you are interested in the class, contact the office at office@c-vuu.org. All those wishing to join CVUU are asked to sign our membership book and make a commitment to our congregation, giving of their time, talents, and treasure to support our UU community.

After signing the book and pledging, new members are recognized during our regular worship service to welcome them officially into the congregation. The ceremony is simple (and participation is optional) but an essential ritual in our community.

Q: How much should I pledge?

A: Pledge amounts are up to each member to decide. We want you to be thoughtful and generous when making your pledge. Below is a suggested giving guide.