Frequently Asked Questions
Q: WHAT IS UNITARIAN UNIVERSALISM?
A: Unitarian Universalism is a creedless religion that welcomes all who search for truth, faith and community. Our seven principles affirm our beliefs in justice, peace, acceptance, conscience and respect. Our sources of faith are drawn from countless sources, including the world’s religions, earth-centered traditions, humanist teachings, direct experience and more.
Q: WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A NORMAL SUNDAY SERVICE?
A: Sunday services begin at 11 am and end at noon, but many members choose to come early and stay after for snacks and coffee. All members and visitors wear name badges so that we might get to know each other better. During a typical order of service, there will come a time when the officiant will invite any visitors or guests to stand and introduce themselves. However, doing so is not required. Dress is very individual, please come however you are comfortable. Some prefer jeans or shorts, others dress more formally in suit and tie or skirt or dress.
Q: WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
A: Wear whatever you’re comfortable in! Jeans, shorts, suit and tie — as long as it’s in good taste, it’s all ok with us.
Q: I DEFINE MYSELF AS A PERSON OF THE <religious tradition here> FAITH. WILL I BE WELCOME IN THE UU COMMUNITY?
A: Unitarian Universalism is a creedless faith that draws its wisdom from all of the world’s religions. No matter what you hold true about the divine or the world, life or the afterlife, there is a place for you in our community. We are committed to encouraging every person’s search for truth and meaning and to being on that journey together.
Q: I AM AGNOSTIC OR ATHEIST. WILL I BE WELCOME IN THE UU COMMUNITY?
A: Unitarian Universalism does not dictate what a member believes, nor does it mandate that a person believe anything. All who affirm the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism are welcome.
Q: IS THE CONGREGATION ACTIVE IN SOCIAL JUSTICE OR COMMUNITY ISSUES OUTSIDE ITS DOORS?
A: Absolutely! Social action in this congregation dates back to our very origins. Members of our Fellowship have long stood up for what they believe in, and we are proud to say this tradition continues. Today, our social action efforts center around LGBT rights and marriage equality, animal rights, water justice, environmental conservation, feeding the hungry, fair trade and human rights. To learn more, visit our Social Responsibility Circle web page.
Q: I HAVE QUESTIONS NOT ANSWERED HERE. WHO CAN I CONTACT?
A: If you have additional questions, please call our office Monday through Friday, 9 am – 1 pm, at (805) 544-1669, or send an email to our office administrator.
Q: WHAT ARE THESE CIRCLES I KEEP HEARING ABOUT?
A: The Fellowship is a vibrant and growing congregation. It takes many hands to keep up the life and work of our community. As such, we have developed six circles of volunteers who help address the needs of the Fellowship as a whole. Each Circle is headed by a Circle Coordinator. To learn more about one of these circles, please contact the Circle Coordinator, or visit the Circle’s webpage.
Communications Circle – Volunteer Needed
Growth & Learning Circle – Joan Scott
Pathways Circle – Jan Clarke
Social Responsiibility Circle – Gina Whitaker
Stewardship Circle – Volunteer Needed
Worship and Welcome Circle – Laurie Weymann