Newcomer Orientation at
The Unitarian Church in Westport
Any person 14 years of age or older may become a member of this Church by: 1) participating in the 3-part Newcomer Orientation meetings or making other arrangements with one of our ministers...and 2) signing the membership book, thus demonstrating sympathy with the purpose and program of the Church and a willingness to join with other members in supporting both the activities and the financial needs of the Church.
While membership is not required to participate in all aspects of church life, attending events and classes and serving on non-elected committees, it is encouraged. Only members may vote on matters that come before the congregation and only members may chair committees.
Our Newcomer Orientation is offered as a
three-part series four times a year. The course is designed to help you decide
whether or not this is the congregation you have been looking for, one in which
you can truly belong, contribute, learn and grow as your spiritual journey
continues. You can attend Parts I, II and III in order whenever you are ready,
even months or years apart. Part III includes the opportunity to join the
church by signing our membership book and making a pledge. Annually in May
we welcome all new members as part of a New Member Sunday
service dedicated to the celebration of covenant and community. Though the
orientation series focuses on the experience of newcomers, any member or friend
of the church is welcome to attend any session. Anyone who wishes to join the
church is strongly encouraged to attend all three, but other arrangements are
possible.
Part I:
Connecting
In Part I we welcome you and your
family, answer any questions you might have and suggest some ways to connect
with others in the congregation as you continue to get to know us. One or more
ministers and staff members attend this session and join others in the group in
sharing the stories of how we came to this church and to Unitarian
Universalism. You’ll receive a packet of information that identifies specific
ways to get involved. We also include a DVD entitled Voices of a Liberal Faith in which members and ministers of other
UU congregations share their thoughts on worship and fellowship, talk about
religious education, explore the historic roots of UUism, and celebrate the
spirit of social justice that inspires our faith.
Part II: Deepening
Part II offers more information
about the history and theology of UUism, using handouts, video and discussion.
We also talk about this congregation, its history and the symbols, values,
vision, mission and covenants we share. In Part I, we had the opportunity to
share what brought each of us to this place and moment. In Part II, we turn our
attention to the future, asking “What needs to happen next for you and how can
we support your progress toward your vision of a meaningful life?” The packet
of materials you receive will include ideas for ways to deepen your engagement
here, moving you forward on your path in “purposeful companionship” with
others.
Part III: Belonging
Part III is designed to support
those who are deciding whether or not to become a member. We explore what it
really means to be a member of this congregation. The discussion part of this
session focuses on the core human need to belong,
and the balance we seek here between the autonomy of each individual and our
responsibility to the common good, both within our congregation and beyond its
walls. Those who wish to “sign the book” will be welcomed to do so in a short
ceremony. We’ll take pictures of new members and ask you to write a short bio
for our newsletter Soundings, and
complete a questionnaire for our database. The New Member packet you receive in
this session contains welcome gifts and resources.
Questions? Contact Betty Rich, Membership Chair - 
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