Becoming a Member
Are you thinking about becoming a Member of our church, but not sure what that means, or how to go about it?
If you are new to AUUC, we encourage you to worship with us a few times and to stay after service for coffee and conversation with members and an opportunity to talk informally with the minister. We also encourage you to join us for a “Starting Point” Small Group session (see below) or explore various church activities, classes, and events that appeal to you.
Learn about upcoming activities in the News and Events page or email communications@accotinkuu.org to receive the weekly email newsletter, This Week at Accotink.
“AUUC strives to be a congregation that truly welcomes all persons and commits to structuring congregational life in ways that empower and enhance everyone’s participation. Members of the Congregation are in a close and mutually supportive relationship and commit themselves to maintaining AUUC as a vital and effective institution. No doctrinal test shall be required for membership.” (from the AUUC By-Laws)
“Starting Point” Small Group Series
Newcomers as well as established members are invited to participate in a 4-session online small group activity introducing our church and Unitarian Universalism. The series, called “Starting Point,” introduces the philosophy and history of Unitarian Universalism and it relation to our individual spiritual journeys. The sessions use “deep listening” where each member of the group shares and learns from each other in a safe and supportive environment.
The groups meets via Zoom from 7:30 to 9:00pm every other week for four sessions. If you would like to join us for this activity, please contact revlevwood@accotinkuu.org.
Membership Comes with Benefits and Responsibilities
Benefits of membership:
- Free subscription to UUWorld, the magazine of the UUA
- Free use of the church for non-commercial endeavors
- Access to the minister for life events — memorial services, child dedications, and weddings
- Pastoral Care Team support in times of need
- Eligible for internment in the Memorial Garden
- Privilege of voting in our democratic process
- Ability to serve on the Board and key leadership positions
- Spring-Mar Cooperative Preschool tuition discount
Responsibilities of membership:
- Give of your time and talent, as you are able
- Sign the Membership Book
- Make an annual pledge or identifiable contribution
Steps to Become a Member
To become or remain a member, a person, at least fifteen years old, must:
- Agree with and be willing to support the overall purposes and mission of the Congregation;
- Sign the membership book; and
- Commit to contribute time, talent and funds—commensurate with the person’s ability—toward achieving the programs and goals that the membership annually adopts in a democratic process.
Voting privileges for members shall begin 30 days after all conditions of membership are met.
Any individual who chooses to participate in and/or contribute to the church, but chooses not become a member, is defined as a “Friend of AUUC.”
We welcome your decision to join us, and hope that your relationship with AUUC will be spiritually, intellectually and emotionally rewarding.