UUCEL: FAQ

Most people dress fairly casually at our church. In the winter, sweatshirts, sweaters, and slacks are very common. Wear whatever feels comfortable to you.

How do I get to the church?

Our services are every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. They vary in style and content, but usually have songs, readings, a sermon, and a candle-lighting time for members and visitors to share their joys and sorrows. Sermons can be on different religions, spiritual issues, life issues, and social justice concerns.

We take a collection every Sunday, called "Gifts of the Congregation." Visitors are invited to be our guests, and are not expected to contribute. We also take quarterly collections for different community agencies that we have voted as a congregation to support.

Can I bring my children?

What do children do during the services?

Children come to the sanctuary for the first part of the service, and then are "sung out" to go to religious education classes for school-age children, and the nursery for infants and toddlers. About once a month we have an intergenerational service where children stay in the service for the whole service. Junior and Senior High Youth stay in the service an additional Sunday per month. We also have classes for 3-4 year olds once a month.

Can my child stay with me during the service?

Is your church Christian? Are there people in the congregation who hold diverse beliefs?

Our church started as a Christian Universalist church. Many people in our church are Christian. However, many people in our church are not Christian, too. Our church is a "non-creedal" church, which means that members do not have to accept any particular statement of belief to join.

Are people like me welcome here?

Yes! Our church welcomes people of different theologies, political views, race, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, ability, and nationality. Whoever you are, you are welcome here.

What do Unitarian Universalists believe?

While Unitarian Universalists do not have to accept any particular creed, or statement of belief, many people find the UU Principles to be an important statement for their religious beliefs.

What makes your church different from others?

The diverse beliefs of our members is something strikingly different from other churches. We define "church" not by the fact that we all believe the same thing about the big questions of life, but by the fact that we all ask the same questions and all worship together. For us, religion isn't a statement of what we believe, but a statement of who we are and how we relate to the world.

Will I be pressured to join?

You may be asked, after attending for a while, if you are interested in joining, and different people may ask you this question. However, it is fine with us if you choose to remain a "friend" without joining for a long time or a short time. We have some people who join the church right away, others who take years.

Is it true that your church is accepting of gays and lesbians?

Yes. Our church voted in 2004 to become a welcoming congregation, after having undergone a process of information and education. We have many BGLT members, and our minister proudly performs same-sex weddings.

Is your building disability accessible?

Yes, our sanctuary, social hall, and a restroom are all accessible. The ramped entrance is in the rear, to the right as you approach the building. Our "parsonage" where our offices are and our schoolhouse are not yet accessible, but it is a goal we are working towards. If you would like to attend a church event held in one of these locations, and you have accessibility needs, please contact the church and we will attempt to accommodate you.

How do I meet other people? How do I get involved?

The first step is often attending our social hour following the service. Next, attending our social events, usually held once per month, is a good way to meet people. We also have adult religious education classes a few times per year. Many people find that when they join a committee, they get to know people better, as well.

Can I get married at UUCEL? Even if I'm not a member?

Yes. Our historic sanctuary is a lovely location for small (up to 100 people) weddings. Our minister performs weddings for members and non-members, at the church and off-site. See our minister for further information.

I'm interested, but need more. How can I find out more about UUCEL?

Please feel free to call or e-mail the church. Check our "contact us" page for contact information.

What should I wear to church?

How do I get to the church?

Can I bring my children?

What do children do during the services?

Can my child stay with me during the service?

Is your church Christian? Are there people in the congregation who hold diverse beliefs?

Our church started as a Christian Universalist church. Many people in our church are Christian. However, many people in our church are not Christian, too. Our church is a "non-creedal" church, which means that members do not have to accept any particular statement of belief to join.