Frequently Asked Questions   

What do adults wear?

You are welcome to come in whatever makes you comfortable. You'll find most people wearing casual attire -- everything from typical "Friday casual days" wear to jeans and T-shirts. And there are some men who feel more comfortable in a coat and tie and some women likely to wear a dress or suit. 

What do children wear?

Children will be fine in sneakers and jeans or any play clothes. They will probably spend part of the Religious Education class sitting in a circle on a carpet, and another working with paste, glue, paint or crayons. In nice weather, the children sometimes go outdoors.

Is your church accessible to people in wheelchairs?

Yes. Several members use wheelchairs. There is a ramp to the side entrance of the building. The bathrooms are accessible. There is an chairlift for access to the sanctuary. Hallways and doorways are wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair, too. Several parking spaces are designated for handicap use .

What other accessibility issues have you addressed?

We have an assisted listening system.

What do children do during the service?

We provide childcare for babies, and toddlers. There are religious education classes for children from 3 to 18 during services.

May our child stay with us during the service?

Of course. Most Sundays there are a few young ones in the congregation. 

How do I find you?

Click on 'Contacts & Directions' in our website menu and find a map plus addresses, phone numbers, and names.

Will I be welcome?

Absolutely. As you enter, you will be greeted by church members who will officially welcome you, provide you with a nametag, and answer questions you may have. We hope you will feel comfortable providing us with contact information so that we may send you our newsletter. Ours is a diverse community: young and old, walking and wheeling, straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, black and white, Asian and Hispanic, singles, couples, and families. You'll meet teachers, social workers, carpenters, homemakers, artists, lawyers, nurses, doctors, secretaries, business owners, computer programmers, people without jobs, students, retired people, and more. 

Do you welcome gays and lesbians?

Yes. We have many active members of our community who are openly gay or lesbian. Some come just for Sunday services. Some serve on committees and our Board of Trustees. All are integrated into our community..

What goes on during the worship services?

Most services include the following.

  • Words of welcome
  • Music for gathering
  • Chalice lighting and response
  • Candles of Joy and Sorrow
  • Meditation and Silent  Prayer
  • Reading
  • Morning Message:
  • Offering and Music
  • Closing Hymn and Words
  • Music for Parting

Our Minister is usually in the pulpit two Sundays a month. In addition, we hear from guests and members of our congregation.

Does your congregation have diverse beliefs?

Yes, indeed. In our congregation we have humanists, theists, pagans, Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, atheists, agnostics, and more. Although individual Unitarian Universalists have varied beliefs about everything from scripture to rituals to God, we uphold shared principles and come together for spiritual development guided by freedom, reason, and conscience.

How do I become a member?

You don't have to be a member to attend worship at First Parish. We strongly suggest you attend our services until you are comfortable with us. We have new member orientation meetings, and you will meet with the Minister. Once you have decided you want to join, you may sign the membership book 30 days after your decision. You will be invited to attend a special Sunday morning service of welcome , and a New Member Breakfast at the end of the church year.

What do I do if I have other questions?

Email kbkuu@gwi.net or call the church office at (207)985-3700.