MEMBERSHIP & CONNECTION
We are so happy that you are interested in getting to know First Unitarian Church of Rochester!
First Unitarian Church is a welcoming, LGBTQ+ inclusive, and spiritually diverse community. We each bring our own personal beliefs and spiritual practices. We join in community to grow spiritually, and support others on their spiritual paths. Living our Unitarian Universalist Values and our church mission of Listen, Open, Serve, we also seek to make our world a better place for all!
We offer a variety of ministries and small groups that will help you make First Unitarian your spiritual home. In these groups, we hope that you feel spiritually fed and supported in living into your deepest values. Some examples of smaller communities here at First Unitarian are: Soul Matters, 20s & 30s group, social justice groups, anti-racism classes, choir, meditation classes with the Buddhist Fellowship, volunteer opportunities with our Caring Cuisine, our gardening group, UU/School partnerships, parenting as spiritual practice, and much more!
Our Assistant Minister, Rev. AJ is ready to answer your questions about our First Unitarian Community! Feel free to reach out to Rev. AJ.
JOIN US SUNDAYS FOR WORSHIP AND CONNECTION
We invite you to join us on Sundays for our 9:15 and 11:30 AM Services and Connection between the Services at 10:30. Our second service is also online.
JOIN US SUNDAYs FOR WORSHIP AND CONNECTION
We invite you to join us on Sundays both in-person and online for Summer Worship at 10:30 AM, followed by Connection at 11:30 AM.
WORkSHOP CLASSES
We offer 3 workshop style classes to help you get to know us better – details below!
Reach out to Rev. AJ with any questions.
UU 101
INTRO TO UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM AND OUR CHURCH
This is where to start! UU 101 is a one-time, one hour, session that will help you understand and explore both our community and Unitarian Universalism. It provides a brief overview of UU beliefs and church activities – a great way to start to find “your place” at First Unitarian. In this session you will also meet others who are at a similar point in getting to know our church and you will learn about our various ministries.
Classes are offered twice a month, after Sunday service.
Starting Point
The next step along the path to becoming both more involved and a member of First Unitarian, is Starting Point. This 5 hour class offers newcomers and old timers alike an opportunity to explore ways in which Unitarian Universalism can make a difference in their lives. Not only will it help you decide if UUism is right for you, it’s an opportunity to reflect on your beliefs and values, a time to find your smaller community within First Unitarian, and of course time to connect with others. Virtual classes are offered several times a year, some on Saturdays, and others on consecutive evenings. UU 101 is recommended before attending Starting Point.
Starting Point dates are posted on our Events Calendar and in our weekly newsletter.
UU 201
STEPS TO MEMBERSHIP
Interested in becoming a member? Wondering how you decide if you are ready to become a member or what “joining” involves? UU 201 offers the information you need to discern whether you are ready to make the commitment of membership. You will learn the importance of being in covenant with our church and the benefits and responsibilities of membership. Classes are offered in Winter and Spring. They will be posted on our Events Calendar and Newsletter.
The Inquirer’s Series
INTRODUCTION TO UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM AND OUR CHURCH
The Inquirer’s Series is a rotation of 9 conversations about our church and Unitarian Universalism that meets at 10:30 am every Sunday in room 119. The series is designed for visitors and newcomers who are looking for a general introduction to help decide if First Unitarian would be a good match for them. It is designed for you to drop in at any time and pick up classes you miss in future rounds of the series. You are encouraged to attend this first step on your journey with First Unitarian!
STARTING POINT: DEEPENING YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY AT FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH
The next step along the path to becoming both more involved and a member of First Unitarian is Starting Point. This 3 hour workshop offers newcomers and seasoned members alike an opportunity to check in with the state of their spiritual lives and journey. Not only can it help you decide if UUism is right for you, it’s an opportunity to reflect on your own spiritual history, your current beliefs and curiosities, and how First Unitarian Church can be a meaningful part of your spiritual journey. In person workshops are offered six times a year, some on Saturdays and others during the evening. Registration is required for Starting Point.
You can register for our next Starting Point workshop on Saturday, January 11th, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm HERE. Registration is requested by January 4th.
Starting Point dates are also posted on our Events Calendar and in our Weekly Connections Newsletter.
Inquirer’s Series – Session 9
Interested in becoming a member? Wondering how you decide if you are ready to become a member or what “joining” involves? The “final” session in the Inquirer’s series offers the information you need to discern whether you are ready to make the commitment of membership. You will learn the importance of being in covenant with our church, and about sharing your time, talent and treasure. This session is offered every nine weeks.
CONNECT
We are so glad you are interested in getting to know our community! If you would like more information on any of our programs, more about Unitarian Universalism, our church, or the Steps to Membership, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our Assistant Minister, Rev. AJ, is happy to help you!