New UU (03/02)

The New UU program provides information about Unitarian Universalism. We look at our history, our theology (theologies), and our societal locus / place. This is done in three sessions filled with a variety of engaging segments. Like any class, we have introductions. We share the rules of engagement. We set the tone by sharing chalice lightings, ice breakers, facts, figures and congregational history and stories.

These are the tools to help our congregation welcome, orient, and integrate newcomers into this SepulvedaUU community. The program addresses the needs of newcomers who want to know more about who we are and what we believe. It provides opportunities for members of SepulvedaUU to share with newcomers what it means to them to be a Unitarian Universalist. 

This gives newcomers a chance to examine their own personal stories in the light of our Unitarian Universalist tradition and heritage. It provides a chance for newcomers to the congregation and long-timers to connect. It provides an explicit invitation to become a member but without any coercion or arm tugging. We are the open heart people. We share freely.  

We hope that you will attend services regularly, make a commitment to personal spiritual growth, and cultivate a regular spiritual practice. When you become a member of SepulvedaUU, you enter into a sacred covenant with the congregation and you join us in our mission to inspire spiritual growth, care for each other and our community, seek truth, and act for justice. (centered)

What does it mean to become a Member of SepulvedaUU?

Friends and visitors are always welcome at the SepulvedaUU and may participate in nearly all aspects of congregational life, including Sunday services, small groups, classes, special events, ministry teams and financial support of the Community. Becoming a member of the congregation is an important step for many people to express that you have found your spiritual home with us as a way of deepening your commitment, and making a public statement about your beliefs.

Responsibilities of Membership:
We ask members to be present in the life of the congregation. While this may be a little different for everyone, we encourage you to:

• Be present and participate in ways that are meaningful to you and feed your soul
• Contribute to the vibrancy of our community by sharing your time and talent in service of our mission and vision
• Become involved with smaller groups
• Make an annual financial commitment consistent with your financial situation (finances will not be a barrier to joining)

Benefits of Membership:
Most people would agree that the most significant benefits of membership are not tangible or measurable. Among these are spiritual and personal growth, deep connections with others, and a sense of being part of something larger than yourself. Additional benefits include:

• Vote at congregational meetings
• Minister leads all rites of passage (schedule permitting)
• Eligibility for serving on all leadership teams
• Access to scholarship funds for training and conferences

Pathway to Membership

Get Connected! Getting connected is a really important part of congregational life.

• Start attending services, online, and in person
• Get involved in small group ministries, social action, other possibilities

Steps to Membership

• Attend New UU: An overview of SepulvedaUU and Unitarian Universalist history and beliefs. It’s a great way to meet other newcomers and learn more about Unitarian Universalism. The session also includes information about activities, programs and ministry teams here at SepulvedaUU and covers what it means to become a member of the congregation. Click here for session registration
• Make a financial commitment (“pledge”): The pledge is an amount that you plan to give annually and is usually paid monthly. This amount is based on your financial situation and the role the SepulvedaUU plays in your life. We encourage members to be generous within the context of their circumstances. The pledge should not be a barrier to joining. (We are entirely self-sustaining and rely on the financial support of our congregation for staffing and to offer high quality programs)
• Sign the membership book: The final step in becoming a member is signing the Membership Book, signifying your desire to enter a covenantal relationship with our community. The Membership Book is located in the Sanctuary for when you are ready to become a member. You may arrange to sign the Membership Book at another time with Rev Gordon. After you have signed the book, you will be invited to our next New Member Recognition Ceremony

If you have any questions or would like additional information about membership, please email revgordon@sepulvedauu.org.

For more information and access to other events, Click Here to sign our Guestbook!