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Frequently Asked
Questions About UUCO
What is it your church follows? top
Every individual is on a religious journey. For some, the journey is an exciting adventure, for others it is barely acknowledged as a part of their existence. As Unitarian Universalists we help each other give expression to our journeys and to become more aware of our own beliefs. Unitarian Universalist minister David Parke writes, “Unitarian Universalism’s greatest strength lies in its conviction that the journey of the human spirit is one that each person must make for her-or himself. The range of liberal religious experience is limited only by the seemingly infinite variety of human characteristics. ~~ from “Journeys: The Many Paths to Unitarian Universalism” by Edwin C. Lynn
Is Unitarian Universalism the same as Unity or
Unification? top
Unitarian Universalism is not the same as Unity or Unification. The Unity church is a break-off from the Christian Science tradition, and the Unification Church is perhaps better known as the “Moonies.” Unitarian Universalism has its roots in the Protestant Church movement. The Unitarians trace their history back to the Reformation in Europe, and were originally defined by their belief in the Unity of God, rather than in the Trinity. The Universalists are an American religion that goes back to the 18th century, and were known for their embracing of the doctrine of universal salvation. They believed that a loving God sent his son Jesus to save us all, and that he succeeded. Thus they rejected the notion of Hell. Neither the Unitarians nor the Universalists required a creedal test of faith in order to join their churches, and over a period of centuries their beliefs opened up to new thought and new questions. In 1961 the two denominations merged, to become the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations.
What is your church like? top
Our church follows an order of service on Sunday mornings which bears a resemblance to other Protestant faiths. We sing hymns, celebrate our joys and sorrows, pray or meditate together, have readings, and hear a sermon. The difference is that we draw from all of the world religions for our inspiration, as well as from artists, philosophers, activists, and other secular sources. We offer a full program of religious education for children, youth and adults, as well as a wealth of other activities.
How is the church organized? top
Unitarian Universalism is organized under the principle of congregational polity. This means that rather than investing authority in a Pope or House of Bishops or Prophet, the center of our authority rests within congregations. Each member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association sends delegates to a General Assembly each summer, where policy is set for the association. Within our church, we are run by a board of trustees which is elected at our annual meeting in May on a rotating basis. Ministers, who are professionally trained in theological schools and then ordained by congregations, are called to our churches through a congregation search process and vote.
Is this church for me? top
Marjorie Achley writes:
“Perhaps you have been looking for a church where:
Your doubts are not ridiculed.
Your guilts are lightened.
Your griefs are comforted.
Your joys are celebrated.
Your children are taught all religions.
Your talents are nurtured.
Your concerns are shared.
Your reason is honored.
Your friendships are deepened.
Your love of art and beauty is expanded.
Your need to serve others is fostered.
Your need to laugh is encouraged.
Your individual decision is treasured.
Then you have been looking for a Unitarian Universalist Church. These are our aspirations. If they are yours, come join and help us achieve them.”
How do you become a member of the church? top
Newcomers who are interested in exploring membership with the church are encouraged to attend a two evening orientation series, where they share their religious journeys, learn about UU purposes and principles, UU history, and UU polity. In general it is a good idea to visit the church a number of times, and become active in one of our smaller interest groups or classes before considering membership.We do not dictate when people become members, but allow that to be an individual discernment process
What's expected of a member? top
Membership involves committing to attend services regularly, feeling in sympathy with the principles of religious freedom and diversity, and making contributions of both time and financial support to the church. Financial contributions are made on a voluntary basis through a pledging process. We are a warm, inclusive community, and the members are expected to participate in the life of the community in the spirit of love.
What does one wear to church? top
Come as you are! Some folks like to dress up for Sundays, while others arrive in sandals and shorts (ready for a hike after the service). We welcome you to be yourself.
Is there child care or Sunday School available? top
We have a professional nursery work to tend the babies through toddlers, and hold religious education classes for children and youth ages 3 through 18. The children usually attend the first 10 minutes of the service, and then are excused for their classes (however the nursery is open for the whole service). Some parents prefer to keep their very small babies with them, and that is welcome. Our religious education classes work on a rotating three year schedule, and cover World Religions, Social Justice, and Unitarian Universalists Principles. Our youth group meets on Sundays, but also holds social activities including regional youth conferences. We host monthly intergenerational activities (such as sledding, swim parties, hikes, bowling, etc.). We hold a children’s chapel in lieu of Sunday classes once each month during the school year. Our religious education program is run by volunteers (who are carefully screened) and is coordinated by a half time Director of Religious Education.
What goes on during Sunday Services? top
Please come and visit. You will find that on the surface our services look like those in other churches, with hymns, readings, sharing of joys and concerns, prayers or meditations, and a weekly sermon. However, the sources from which we draw is truly diverse, including the major world religions, artists, activists, scientists, philosophers and others. Our services are generally participatory in nature, although it is quite possible to sit quietly without having to put oneself forward. There are no special instructions to follow (such as genuflecting etc.). All are welcome.
Is this church affirming of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and
Transgendered People? top
In a word, yes! We affirm the worth and dignity of all people, and have been active for years in the struggle for equity for people of all sexual and gender identities. Our clergy members are happy to celebrate GLBT ceremonies of commitment, and we celebrate the place of GLBT people in our community.
What do UU's believe? top
UU’s affirm the worth and dignity of every person. We uphold the democratic process and strive for freedom, equity and compassion in human relationships. We acknowledge the interdependent web of existence of which we are all a part. And, we encourage one another in the ongoing search for truth and meaning, both as a matter of spiritual and intellectual inquiry. We are a caring, inclusive community
How do I become more involved in the church? top
Please join us for worship on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. at 705 23rd Street. Feel free to call our minister to discuss your concerns or to gather more information. Search our website for activities outside of Sundays, and either read our newsletter online, or sign up to receive it in the mail (email us your address, call it in over the phone to (801) 394-3338, or sign up on Sunday mornings at the welcome table). A good introductory book to order (available at the UU bookstore online at uua.org, or through Amazon or other bookstores) is “A Common Faith” by Forrest Church and John Buehrens. Join some of our activity groups, like the book discussion group, the women’s group, the spirituality discussion group, etc.
How do I get to the church? top
Our church building is located at 705 23rd Street in Ogden, Utah. Please click here for more detailed directions and a map.
What time and how long are services? top
10:30-11:30 a.m. every Sunday. Coffee and refreshment time follows the formal service.
- What is it your church follows?
- Is Unitarin Universalism the same as Unity or Unification?
- What is your church like?
- How is the church organized?
- Is this church for me?
- How do you become a member of the church?
- What's expected of a member?
- What does one wear to church?
- Is there child care or Sunday School available?
- What goes on during Sunday Services?
- Is this church affirming of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgendered People?
- What do UU's believe?
- How do I become more involved in the church?
- How do I get to the church?
- What time and how long are the services?
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