Visitors
Considering a Visit to UUCR?
We are a diverse community that supports a free and responsible search for truth and meaning. We seek religious insight and understanding from science, art, poetry, and philosophy as well as the traditions of the world's great religions and Earth-based spirituality. As a Welcoming Congregation, we extend a warm welcome to all who are interested in learning more about our church and our denomination.
What to Expect
Worship services are held every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. from Labor Day until the end of May. During the summer, we meet at 10:00 a.m.
Our services are coordinated by our Worship Services Committee and are led by our minister or by lay ministers or other members of the congregation. During the summer, more informal servces have varied styles and formats. There is no set dress code, so please feel free to come as you are most comfortable.
You will be greeted at the door and asked to fill out a nametag and a contact information card. You will be given a packet of information about UUCR and Unitarian Universalism. A rack of pamphlets on our denomination can be found by the stairway leading to our downstairs religious education classrooms.
UUCR supports a full religious education program. Childcare is offered for the youngest children, while school-aged children participate in classroom learning and activities or can stay with you for the service. During summer months, children are invited to participate in informal activities with a trained supervisor. The nursery is also available in the summer and staffed by an experienced childcare provider.
After the service, we encourage you to join us for coffee/tea and refreshments. UUCR members are happy to meet and talk with you, to share impressions and experiences, and to welcome you to a church that encourages each person’s unique spiritual journey.
For more information about UUCR, newcomer orientations, or church membership, please send an email to the church office administrator and a member of the Membership Committee will contact you.
How to Become a Member
We encourage anyone interested in becoming a member to attend a Newcomers' Orientation. Sessions are held three times a year-- usually in October, January, and April--and provide an opportunity to meet with church leaders, other newcomers, and our minister to talk about our own faith journeys, Unitarian Universalism, and the programs and activities offered at UUCR. Our minister is also available by appointment to discuss our faith and answer your questions.
We invite prospective members to participate in a brief New Member ceremony that takes place during a Sunday morning worship service. While not an official requirement for membership, this is an important ritual that allows the congregation to welcome you and honor your decision to become a member of our church. However, if you wish to become a member, the Membership Book can be signed at any time. Just let a Board member, a Membership Committee member, or the minister know that you wish to sign the book.
What Can I Expect at an Orientation?
A newcomers' orientation is an opportunity to get acquainted with our minister, some active UUCR members, and other seekers who have visited with us in recent months.
We will talk about:
- Our own faith journeys
- Unitarian Universalist guiding principles (Principles and Purposes)
- Unitarian Universalist history
- A walking tour of UUCR history
- The commitment of membership
- UUCR programs
- Opportunities for involvement
- Other questions and topics of interest
When is the Next Orientation?
Look for an orientation in the fall, winter, and spring. The orientation will take about 3 to 3.5 hours. Childcare is provided upon request.
Information on upcoming orientations will be posted in the Newsletter, Order of Service announcements, and on the website. You may also email the church office; a member of the Membership Committee will contact you with more information.
How to Volunteer Once I Become a Member
The Membership Committee will assist newcomers and new members to find opportunities for involvement in activities that interest you. Membership involves giving tangible support to the church. New members will be asked to make a pledge of financial support and service for the coming year. The congregation makes all decisions regarding the governance and finance of church operations in annual and fiscal meetings. Members (in attendance) are eligible to vote at all church meetings.