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.

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 -