Meaning of Membership

Unitarian Universalism is a non-creedal association of congregations; meaning each of us is free to develop our religious beliefs without reference to a particular theological doctrine.  Instead, we consider membership in a UU church as a “covenant” among equals. We are only as strong as the bonds and relationships we create together as religious community. If you have been attending for a while and think this may be the right place for you, we welcome you to become a member by signing our Membership Book.

Choosing to become a member of First Church means that you feel this church makes a difference in your life, giving it greater strength, depth, significance and direction. It means you feel a sense of belonging and commitment to the liberal religious values this church represents. It means willingness to support the church with ideas, energy, time and money, so that these values can be realized in the world. If you’re not yet sure—we welcome your questions and respect your process. We invite you to contact Jim Staton, Membership Coordinator; jstaton@uubelmont.org for any questions or conversation.

So–why join?

  • to affirm the purpose and principles of our free religious tradition;
  • to enjoy a community of kindred spirits with whom you can feel safe, welcomed, appreciated and respected;
  • to experience spiritual growth for yourself and your children;
  • to find beliefs and values put into action through social outreach and education.

We require no creedal tests and no professions of dogma or doctrine.  For us, membership is a covenant to walk together in fellowship.  We ask only for an honest desire to participate in and support the life and work of the congregation.

Path to Membership

New UU Class

We encourage everyone who is interested in exploring membership to attend our popular NEW UU class, facilitated by Rev. David Bryce and Membership Coordinator Jim Staton. The class provides a chance to reflect on your individual spiritual journey, as well as learn about the history of Unitarian Universalism, discuss Unitarian Universalist beliefs, and learn more about our congregation.  The NEW UU class is offered three times during the year.  Of course, not everyone’s schedule permits them to attend the NEW UU class, but we do encourage you to take the class if at all possible.  Childcare is provided.  Please email Jim Staton if you are planning to come to the class.

Next Class Scheduled:

  • New UU class Saturday – May 12th 2012  9:30 am -12:30 pm

Meeting Reverend David Bryce

If you decide you would like to become a member, Rev. Bryce likes to meet with you to get to know you better, and to give you a chance to ask all the questions you might have.  If you have not had a chance to meet Rev. Bryce, you may contact him to schedule a meeting.  Also new this year David is having “Coffee with the Minister” in his study immediately following the services on occasional Sundays.  Look for upcoming dates in the weekly Newsletter.

New Member Sunday

We hold NEW MEMBER SUNDAY services two times during the year, where we  recognize and welcome new members into the life of the church community.  Prior to the service, new members are invited to a special welcome reception hosted by our Membership Committee.

The next New Member Sunday Service:

  • May 20th 2012

To discuss membership in this church, to meet with the minister, or to arrange to sign the membership book, please contact: Rev. David Bryce (dbryce@uubelmont.org), or our Membership Coordinator, Jim Staton (jstaton@uubelmont.org).

 

Membership Committee

The Membership Committee welcomes visitors to First Church; informs them about the principles of Unitarian Universalism and the structure of First Church.  We help integrate newcomers, as well as members, into the church community. Our activities include greeting visitors at community hour, preparing name tags, organizing New UU classes on Unitarian Universalism, and planning special worship services to formally welcome and recognize new members.  Members of our committee are available to answer questions and welcome your email.

  • Tom Neel, Membership Committee Chair, nathorne@msn.com
  • Jim Staton, Membership Coordinator,  jstaton@uubelmont.org
  • David Warner, New Connections Chair, w_d_warner@yahoo.com
  • Judy McSwain  jamcswain@gmail.com
  • Lauren Corning  ljcorning@gmail.com
  • Janet Amphlett  janetamphlett@gmail.com>
  • Anjali Kumar  anjalikumar@comcast.net
  • Bruce Dame  dambruce@gmail.com