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, and no matter whom you love, you are truly welcome here. In this church home, we put radical hospitality into practice. We welcome “the individual,” and offer all of our visitors and members a place to be seen and to be 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’s love was so encompassing that in the end of time all of creation would be reconciled to God. 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. Come in, 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 to answer your questions and help you make 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 it receives from you.

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 thought and lifestyles are 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. CVUU is officially recognized by the UUA 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 in social occasions—welcoming them as whole people.

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

A: We have children’s programming for all ages, and it is before the Sunday service at 10 AM, but yes, we have childcare if parents do not want to keep their small children in the worship service, but otherwise, children are 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 Director of Lifespan Faith Development organizes and oversees programs for children and youth, and adults.

Q: If my child does not separate well from me, may he/she 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 in casual clothes, although it’s not uncommon to see sports jackets and dresses. Summertime brings out shorts and sandals. Our children wear a range 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 about an hour and typically includes readings, music, a sermon and singing.

Our minister, Rev. Viola Abbitt, is typically in the pulpit all but one Sunday per month, from September through June. A guest speaker or congregation member offers a sermon when Rev. Viola is not speaking. Occasionally, we have a multigenerational service when the children participate with 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 of the sermon is posted to our YouTube here.

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 minister, Rev. Viola Abbitt, runs the class and will cover who we are and what we do. If you are interested in the class, contact her at minister@c-vuu.org or our Membership Committee at office@c-vuu.org if you have further questions. All those wishing to join CVUU are asked to sign our membership book and make a commitment to our congregation – giving of their offering 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 officially welcome them into the congregation. The ceremony is simple (and participation is optional) but an important ritual in our community.

Q: How much should I pledge?

A: Pledge amounts are up to each member to decide for themselves. We would like you to be as thoughtful and generous as possible in making your pledge.  Below is a suggested giving guide.