The Unitarian Church of Sharon’s guiding principles

Membership in the Unitarian Church of Sharon is open to anyone who agrees with our principles and purpose as a Unitarian Universalist congregation, and formally informs the church leadership of his or her intention to become an active participant in our community.

We recognize that our lives have a context larger than our individual interests, and that there is holiness within everyone. We agree to treat each other with respect and kindness, and to acknowledge and manage our differences in fair, democratic ways. As we strive to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually, and to promote justice in our community and the world, membership in this congregation can help us – borrowing words from Gandhi – “be the change we want to see in the world.”

Becoming a member

We encourage newcomers to learn about our congregation and Unitarian Universalism: attend Sunday services; speak with the minister or Membership Committee representatives (recognizable by their yellow name tags), or someone nearby in a pew or during coffee hour; read The Chalice, our monthly newsletter; explore the Unitarian Universalist Association’s website, www.uua.org. Only members are eligible to vote at official church meetings, but visitors and friends are encouraged to take part in any of the congregation’s fellowship or educational events or social justice projects.

Those ready to formally join the congregation should speak to someone on the Membership Committee or the minister, and complete a membership intent form, which asks for background information, areas of interest and goals for participation in the church. The Board of Trustees votes on new members during its monthly meeting, and newcomers are formally welcomed during a Sunday service.

All members are asked, as they are able, to support the church through an annual financial pledge, and by playing active roles in the committees that shape every facet of the congregation’s life.

Our ongoing work

During weekly services, there is an opportunity to contribute to the congregation’s operations as well as a specific cause or organization that is selected each month by the Social Justice Committee.

Fulfilling our promise as a Welcoming Congregation is a process that requires continued attention. The effort includes providing workshops, film series, book groups, focused services and other events to sustain our level of awareness and deepen our understanding of important issues regarding sexual orientation and gender identity.

We also strive to inform the larger community that Unitarian Universalism as a movement and the Unitarian Church of Sharon in particular welcome and affirm the inherent worth and dignity of all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. We celebrate the gifts that members of the LGBTQ community bring to our congregation.